But did I just turn around too soon?

[sovay]

If there is a single word for the object which casts a shadow, I do not know it, but it should exist.

Comments

[ap-aelfwine.livejournal.com]

I don't know it either, but there should be.
Perhaps somewhere, somewhen, in some language, there is.

[nineweaving.livejournal.com]

Gnomon?

Nine

[clarionj.livejournal.com]

Well, after reading your post and everyone's comments, I feel the need to get back to my novel on shadow exchange.

Fascinating. I have to pursue some of these suggestions.

[asakiyume.livejournal.com]

Are you planning a follow up to "Return on the Downward Road"?