I met Beethoven today. Really, I did.

Unfortunately, he wasn’t composing or playing the piano. He did not even have that angry look of his with the trademark wild and wiry Beethovian hair. A ruffled genius.

This Beethoven was dressed smartly with short hair and he was a friendly, affable sort. Just the kind of person you would expect at the front desk when checking into your hotel, which is what I was doing when I met the 21st century Beethoven. He said, Hope you enjoy your stay; I said, thank you, and was on my way. But as I walked to my room, I couldn’t help but reflect upon this memorable name and other names that I’ve enjoyed along the way.

In 1973, when I was traveling in Ireland with my father, we stopped at a roadside pub one night near the bed and breakfast where we were staying. We sat down next to one of the locals, and my dad immediately struck up a conversation.

What’s your name? he asked. Humphrey, came the proud reply. Oh, said my dad, and what’s your first name? That is my first name, he quickly answered. Humphrey, Humphrey O’Donahue!

We all laughed, my dad in good spirits, but a little uncertain about this new acquaintance with two last names.

I wonder now what he would think about one of our cousins, whose last name is not Callahan, but who plans on naming her first-born son (if it is a boy), Callahan. Families have long given their children a last name for a first name, but I don’t think it’s been a hugely popular thing to do. I kind of like the idea, but my dad, I’m not so sure. And I’m sure he would definitely not go for Humphrey Callahan.

My favorite dog name is Fergus, and when I eventually get a dog, I envision myself strolling down the street, with Fergus, my pet Chihuahua in tow. Only kidding; Fergus has got to be a big, black goofy lab, emphasis on goofy.

But when it comes to first names, or names in general for that matter, you’ve got to hand it to former NBA player Ron Artest, who once launched himself into a crowd of hecklers at a Detroit Pistons game. He eventually christened himself World Peace. I’m thinking, now, that’s a guy who needs to come out of his shell a little.

So those are some of my favorite names and, as you can tell, my reasons are quite varied. But for now, I’m keeping Beethoven at the top of the list. That is, at least until I  run into someone named Moonlight or Sonata!