A great title is more than just a name—it’s a promise to the reader. Your title sets the stage for what’s inside, creating curiosity, intrigue, and anticipation. Whether you're writing a novel, an article, or a poem, your title is the first impression that can make or break your reader’s interest.
As we celebrate the 18th day of Black History Month, it’s important to acknowledge how Black writers and thinkers have used powerful, thought-provoking titles to capture the essence of their work and make a lasting impact. From James Baldwin’s The Fire Next Time to Maya Angelou’s I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings, these titles don’t just sound good—they mean something, creating an emotional and intellectual connection before the first page is even turned.
In today’s Tony Tips Tuesdays, we’ll explore how to craft a memorable, meaningful, and attention-grabbing title that reflects the soul of your writing.
Why Your Title Matters
A compelling title accomplishes three key things:
1. It Captures Attention
Your title is what makes someone stop and take notice of your work. It’s your hook, drawing readers in with intrigue or emotion.
Example: The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas immediately grabs attention and hints at the book’s theme of racial injustice and activism.
2. It Sets Expectations
A strong title gives the reader a sense of tone, genre, and themes.
Example: Between the World and Me by Ta-Nehisi Coates suggests an intimate, reflective piece about identity and society.
3. It Creates a Lasting Impression
Readers remember powerful, unique titles, making your work more recognizable and impactful.
Example: Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe leaves a haunting impression, reflecting the novel’s themes of colonial disruption.
Types of Titles That Work
Different styles of titles work for different genres and tones. Here are some common types:
1. Evocative & Emotional Titles
These titles create an instant emotional response, making the reader feel something before they even start reading.
Example: Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston conveys a sense of longing, fate, and introspection.
2. Thematic Titles
These titles hint at the central themes of the work.
Example: The Color Purple by Alice Walker suggests themes of race, identity, and transformation.
3. Mysterious & Intriguing Titles
These titles spark curiosity, making the reader want to learn more.
Example: Invisible Man by Ralph Ellison makes readers wonder—who is invisible and why?
4. Symbolic or Metaphorical Titles
These use imagery or symbolism to represent deeper meanings.
Example: I Am Not Your Negro (inspired by James Baldwin’s unfinished manuscript) challenges identity and race relations in America.
5. Bold & Provocative Titles
These titles make strong statements, creating an instant reaction.
Example: We Should All Be Feminists by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie is direct and urgent, leaving no doubt about the book’s purpose.
6. Simple, Yet Powerful Titles
Sometimes, the best titles are short and direct.
Example: Beloved by Toni Morrison is just one word, yet it carries deep emotional and thematic weight.
How to Create a Great Title
A great title doesn’t just happen—it’s crafted with intention. Here’s how you can develop one that resonates:
1. Identify Your Core Theme
Ask yourself: What is my work really about? Find a title that reflects its central message.
Example: The Fire Next Time by James Baldwin references both biblical imagery and the urgent fight against racial injustice.
2. Use Strong, Evocative Language
Choose words that evoke emotion, intrigue, or power.
Example: Song of Solomon by Toni Morrison uses biblical and poetic imagery to hint at themes of identity and legacy.
3. Experiment with Wordplay or Double Meanings
Clever titles draw readers in and make them think.
Example: The Warmth of Other Suns by Isabel Wilkerson refers both to the literal migration of Black Americans and the hope of a better future.
4. Keep It Concise, But Impactful
Long titles can work (When They Call You a Terrorist: A Black Lives Matter Memoir), but shorter titles are often more memorable.
Example: Kindred by Octavia Butler is simple yet profound, emphasizing connection and ancestry.
5. Consider Cultural & Historical Context
If your work connects to history or identity, a title that reflects that can add depth.
Example: Black Boy by Richard Wright is straightforward but deeply meaningful, tying personal experience to racial identity.
Incorporating Titles in World-Building: The S.O.L.A.D. Example
When I was creating S.O.L.A.D.™: Soldiers of Light Against Darkness™, I knew the title had to reflect the heart of the story—an epic battle between light and darkness. The word “Soldiers” immediately conveys action, duty, and resilience, while “Light Against Darkness” represents the overarching struggle between good and evil. I wanted a title that wasn’t just eye-catching but also set the stage for everything the reader would experience within the pages—hope, faith, action, and the ultimate fight against oppression. If you’re working on your own project, think about how your title can capture not just the storyline but also the spirit of your work.
Final Thoughts
A great title is more than just a label—it’s an invitation, a promise, and a statement. Whether you’re drawing inspiration from Black literary icons or creating something entirely new, make sure your title is memorable, meaningful, and reflective of your story’s soul.
As we celebrate Black History Month, let’s recognize the power of words—not just in the pages of our stories, but in the very first impression we create.
What’s your perfect title?
Happy writing, and see you next time for another Tony Tips Tuesdays!
Looking for an inspiring, action-packed read? Check out my novels in the S.O.L.A.D.™: Soldiers of Light Against Darkness™: The Angelo™ and Angeline™ Chronicles. Autographed copies are available at www.tyronetonyreedjr.com/the-shop. Dive into a world where light battles darkness, and heroes are born through courage and faith. Thank you for your support!
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