The author uses names to foreshadow Riddley's journey. The name,"Brooder", implies someone who is pensive and thoughtful. Brooder Walker was the village's "connexion man," a male counterpart to Lorna's position as the village "tel." The name "Riddley," on the other hand, implies a person who creates or solves riddles, whereas, the name "Walker" implies someone who travels.
Riddley Walker