“A rose by any other name…” I have never really understood that phrase but I think the important takeaway is that a name is powerful. My kids just asked me about the history of last names. It was less a question about our specific surname and more about the origin of names in general. I know about my cultural heritage but I have no knowledge about the origins of my name. I think surnames were often tied to occupation. I have no idea what a “Jack” did for a living. I don’t need to know the origins of my surname to know who I am. I guess a deeper understanding of my roots could change my personal identity but I feel fairly confident that I am not defined by my name. Is there a language where the word “Jack” means average guy who eats ice cream to solve his problems?
