This is one reason I feel an odd disconnect (anonymity?) with HN that isn’t felt on other social platforms I’ve been a part of. Those often have avatars or some other visual form of recognition that helps put a “face” to a name.
I’m not sure if that’s a good or bad thing, but I definitely think it’s intentional.
The only user name I can remember is dang, because of the occasional moderation or housekeeping posts.