I Can't Believe My Parents Called Me That!
I've known plenty of people with odd names in my life. There's
James C. Bond, Richard Small (Dick Small) and even an Elvis.
None of them have, as far as I'm aware, killed or disowned their
parents yet, but that doesn't mean there's not still time for
it. These people have to listen to the same jokes off close to
everyone they meet: it's only a matter of time before one of
them does snap.
Of course, for all the new generation of Brittanies, Cocos,
Darths and Beyonces there is a way out. It might seem drastic
but changing your name by deed poll or statutory declaration is
a realistic and easily achievable option. For a very reasonable
price countless internet companies can see you through the
process, with advice on any confusion that may arise. Yes, your
parents might get upset and your friends be confused at first,
but sometimes anything is better than a lifetime of bullying,
sniggers and misery. Things your parents should have very much
thought about before choosing your name to begin with.
Of course, it's always wise to think before making the other
move too. I know someone who changed her name by deed poll to
the fictional heroine of Gaston Leroux's "The Phantom Of The
Opera" Christine Daae. Oh well, there's no accounting for taste!