There are a lot of people who think that titles really don't matter. It's almost as if they think the title and the story exist in two different worlds. So many people will think, "Oh, this is a crappy title, BUT OMG. THE STORY IS AWESOME SO READ IT."
...I tend to wonder what planet they're from.
But seriously. Titles DO matter. When I look on YWS for things to read, I see a lot of titles, and that's usually the first thing I look for. If it doesn't have a good title, then I keep looking. For books in the bookstore, it's even more important to have catchy titles. I don't have many favorite authors, but I can't stand a stupid title and won't pick it up if it is a typical cliched story.
Ouch.
So will I give you a formula about what works and what doesn't? Nope. There are just too many titles that could work. But I will give you titles that won't work.
Untitled
Just come up with something! It doesn't have to be perfect, but it has to be something! Take the main theme of your writing and BAM! A title. Never name something Untitled.
Rememberence
If you go on YWS, there are just SO MANY titles that have to do with memories and the like. It's an epidemic of memories! Unfortunately, these titles are not memorable. Seriously. Instead, take something interesting and original about your writing and use it instead!
Loneliness
I DON'T CARE. I mean, if I cared about your character or the narrator of the poem, then maybe I might possibly care, if it's written well. But don't tell me I'm supposed to feel the loneliness up front. Otherwise, who cares?
The ______ of _______.
Okay. Maybe it would work for "The Barber of Seville" but if your nouns are "curse" and "sword" then you can come up with something better!
Pain
...same thing as loneliness. I won't care unless you make me care. And at the title stage, I don't care.
FREAK
That's my title.
Anyway! I hope this rant has been somewhat helpful.
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