Sunday, January 11, 2015

Writing and use of others work

Q: I really want to use lyrics from this song in my novel, how can I use it legally without having to pay for it?

A: Think about this. You’ve spent your time, energy and creative thoughts. Money has been spent on an editor, cover artist, formatting your book to perfection. Why not write your own lyrics without using someone else’s hard work? 

You’ve written your own story, it’s much better for you to write your own words. Someone else’s work might inspire you but you should write your own. Would you like someone using your writing without paying you for it? Or for someone to claim it as their own when you were the one writing it?

If your using exerts for teaching/ educational purposes that are not commercial then you can use it but you will also want to give credit where credit is due. Some things can be used in a parody format however why would you ever expect something of someone else that you wouldn’t for yourself? Using someone’s work without permission is incredibly disrespectful for your fellow creative.

Plain and simple. It’s illegal. Some might not bother with smaller books however many will and it is grounds for a lawsuit. It’s better to protect yourself legally and get permission.

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