So, at the age of 43, I'm getting married. And the issue of name-after-marriage has now been decided.
Way back, years ago, when I was far more free with my opinions than I am now (bet you wish you'd known me then, eh? You can start pitying my poor parents now, if you like), I was almost militant on this subject. Were I to marry, I'd keep my own name. What right does any man have to demand that I give up the name I grew up with, the name that helps shape my identity? No right at all. Absolutely none. Etc.
Soon after meeting him, I realised that Bruce is every bit as much a feminist as I am. Shortly after agreeing to marry him, I realised that changing a name is a positive adoption of a new identity, not the loss of an old one. I learn quickly. So there we are. I'm changing my name, and from 5.30pm on 30th May, I will be Elaine Mason. This is strange; I'm looking forward to it, while realising that this name sounds strange to me. And I will have no idea what my signature will look like. I'm not practicing.
However. Since I was ten, or thereabouts, I have been titled 'Ms'. And I still will be. Anyone asking after 'Mrs Mason' at the wedding will be introduced to Bruce's mum. You have been warned - two mis-callings and it's a stiletto to the instep.
