Prince (June 10, 1993) “Names should be functional” – St. Cloud Times US

A opinion column in the St. Cloud Times reacting to Prince’s recent name change to the Love Symbol, questioning the practicality of such unconventional names while acknowledging the broader cultural discussion around identity.

Publication: St. Cloud Times

Date: June 10, 1993

Country: United States

Section / Pages: Opinion / Editorial Title: Names should be functional

THE STORY

The column discusses Prince’s decision to adopt the unpronounceable symbol as his name, using it as a starting point to explore the idea that names should be practical and functional. The writer references Shakespeare’s “What’s in a name?” and extends the conversation to modern naming trends, marriage name changes, and potential complications for future generations.

CONTEXT AND NOTES

Published the day after several other Minnesota papers covered Prince’s name change, this opinion piece reflects the mix of fascination, amusement, and mild criticism that surrounded Prince’s bold identity shift in 1993. It shows how the story quickly became a talking point beyond just music news.

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