Early in his career, Dickens used the pseudonym "Boz" to publish sketches of London life. "Boz" allowed him to satirize society, poke fun at bureaucrats, and explore sensitive topics without direct personal backlash. The name became iconic, appearing in newspapers, magazines, and early collections. Dickens’ use of a pen name reflected Victorian norms around anonymity, modesty, and literary experimentation. It gave him freedom to experiment with tone, style, and content. Readers soon recognized the wit and sharp observation associated with Boz, boosting his popularity. The pseudonym also helped Dickens navigate social hierarchies and maintain relationships while critiquing authority figures. This playful alter ego shows the balance between creativity and societal caution in Victorian authorship.
Pseudonyms offered strategic advantage, allowing Dickens to challenge norms while maintaining reputation.
It highlights how writers historically used alternate identities to explore satire, humor, and societal critique safely.
Did you know "Boz" was derived from the nickname of Dickens’ younger brother, Augustus?
[Oxford University Press, oup.com]