Whenever I’m introduced, people can’t help but wonder, “Is Flash her real name?” YES! Flash is short for Susan. Same number of letters (So my numerology is not messed up), but only one syllable, so I can come quicker when called. It’s not an affectation. It’s no secret that at birth, I was named Susan. A perfectly good, mid-century, American name. In fact, when I moved to New York City a few years ago, my agent suggested I go back to using Susan. “Susan is more serious. It might help your work be taken more seriously.” Yeah, right…but it’d be really weird to use a name nobody called me. Besides I’ve already cleared it with the authorities.