This is another 'Achievement' saying, and it can be found under the tab 'Inspirational Guidance'
Whenever I have a project, I throw myself into it with all the fury I can muster, and all the love I can send out. It is important to love our projects. If you've ever baked something and not really been in the mood, it just doesn't turn out as yummy as when you have that urge to bake.
Love is an ingredient we can add to anything anywhere, and it makes whatever we're doing better.
As you know, Edgar Allan Poe is my favorite author/poet. Today, while reading 'The Pit and the Pendulum' I realized why. This man wrote with a ferver and, like he said, he wrote with his readers in mind.
Ah. A lesson from my mentor. I have decided today that all my writings and poetry must be written with all my heart. I have tried at times to force ideas on paper when they just were not ready. The result was re-write. When I write with love, I am amazed at what I have written. Big difference.
This, folks, is the inspirational message I am sharing: use your heart in whatever you do. I would bet it promotes a healthy heart too.
LHR
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Sunday, March 27, 2011
Which Passage/Poem for a Commercial
What if you were asked to pick your favorite passage from your writings or your favorite poem for a 1min-2min commercial to air on TV and in theaters? Which would you choose?
I hit upon this idea today and decided that's what I would blog about - the one passage I could see as a commercial to attract buyers to my novel 'Always'. I have posted it under the tab 'Always'. Let me know what you think and please share the one you would choose from your own work.
Let us continue to delve into different creative aspects of our writing.
LHR
I hit upon this idea today and decided that's what I would blog about - the one passage I could see as a commercial to attract buyers to my novel 'Always'. I have posted it under the tab 'Always'. Let me know what you think and please share the one you would choose from your own work.
Let us continue to delve into different creative aspects of our writing.
LHR
Saturday, March 26, 2011
The Perfect Write Newsletter
I am serious about publishing my poetry and novels. I no longer say 'someday' as I believe this statement itself portrays a lack of belief in myself. I was thrilled when I found out I could call myself a poet, even tho I have nothing published. I intend this year to enter more contests and look for more ways to publish both my poetry and my novels. I was also thrilled to see that by Merriam Webster definition, I am an author and a writer.
Taking my works seriously, I constantly pursue great blogs and other sources that will keep me on track. One of those sources is 'The Perfect Write Newsletter' by Robert Bacon. His latest newsletter had me hanging on every word.
There is a lot being said these days about whether to self-publish or find an agent. This newsletter looks at the controversies involved. Mr. bacon recently attended Sluethfest and garnered important information, which he has passed on to the readers. He also quoted Amanda Hocking on self-publishing.
I got so much information from this newsletter that I left it in my mailbox to read again. Here is one fact I didn't know: In general, libraries are allowed a minimum of 26 checkouts. So now I'm curious on the whole library/publishing cycle. This seems unfair to libraries and their readers.
He had great information on genre mixing and why the difficulty in finding an agent who will accept these works. This interested me, since several of my novels are mixed genre. I go where the pen leads me.
He also does a FREE first chapter critique/edit and posts it on his blog: robertlbacon@blogspot.com. When I read these, I often see mistakes in my writing by the things he points out to others.
I listen to those in the field of writing that I greatly respect. He suggested joining Publishers Lunch Newsletter, which offers both a free shorter newsletter and a subscription for the deluxe newsletter. I joined the free, of course. Take a look at his newsletter. rb@theperfectwrite.com, especially this current one with lots of great information for all of us poets and/or authors. Just click on the link to the side.
LHR
Taking my works seriously, I constantly pursue great blogs and other sources that will keep me on track. One of those sources is 'The Perfect Write Newsletter' by Robert Bacon. His latest newsletter had me hanging on every word.
There is a lot being said these days about whether to self-publish or find an agent. This newsletter looks at the controversies involved. Mr. bacon recently attended Sluethfest and garnered important information, which he has passed on to the readers. He also quoted Amanda Hocking on self-publishing.
I got so much information from this newsletter that I left it in my mailbox to read again. Here is one fact I didn't know: In general, libraries are allowed a minimum of 26 checkouts. So now I'm curious on the whole library/publishing cycle. This seems unfair to libraries and their readers.
He had great information on genre mixing and why the difficulty in finding an agent who will accept these works. This interested me, since several of my novels are mixed genre. I go where the pen leads me.
He also does a FREE first chapter critique/edit and posts it on his blog: robertlbacon@blogspot.com. When I read these, I often see mistakes in my writing by the things he points out to others.
I listen to those in the field of writing that I greatly respect. He suggested joining Publishers Lunch Newsletter, which offers both a free shorter newsletter and a subscription for the deluxe newsletter. I joined the free, of course. Take a look at his newsletter. rb@theperfectwrite.com, especially this current one with lots of great information for all of us poets and/or authors. Just click on the link to the side.
LHR
Sunday, March 20, 2011
Right or Wrong
Today, I post another Achievement saying. This one is by 'Anonymous'. You can find the saying under the Inspirational Tab.
We, in our mortal state, often do and say things we regret. Sometimes we are too proud to apologize, other times it is best not to approach the person right away. And other times, we just don't want to, feeling we had the right to say or do what we said or did.
Our spirit selves often try to tell us this is wrong, but we refuse to listen. So when is the right time? It is when we come to our senses and realize our childness. Our world is a tough world and we often throw our shares of temper tantrums.
By taking the initiative to make things right, we have achieved one more step up in our spiritual growth. We live in a tough world, where a kind word or kind act puts a smile on the face of our spiritual brothers and sisters. Our world will never be Shangrila, but we can each make it a better world for someone every day.
LHR
We, in our mortal state, often do and say things we regret. Sometimes we are too proud to apologize, other times it is best not to approach the person right away. And other times, we just don't want to, feeling we had the right to say or do what we said or did.
Our spirit selves often try to tell us this is wrong, but we refuse to listen. So when is the right time? It is when we come to our senses and realize our childness. Our world is a tough world and we often throw our shares of temper tantrums.
By taking the initiative to make things right, we have achieved one more step up in our spiritual growth. We live in a tough world, where a kind word or kind act puts a smile on the face of our spiritual brothers and sisters. Our world will never be Shangrila, but we can each make it a better world for someone every day.
LHR
Friday, March 18, 2011
In Tribute - a Poem and a Story
The recent events in Japan have made me think back to friendships I formed in college. I attended three colleges, one in Hawaii. It was a small campus back then and people from all over the Pacific attended. Imagine going to classes daily with Tahitians, Samoans, Tongans, Figians, Chinese, Vietnamese, Filipino, and Japanese students. It was a unique experience and one I treasure to this day.
Many of the students did not speak English very well. Many of us did not speak another language, yet we all got along and communicated.
I learned to admire and accept all cultures. I learned to love and see through my soul's eyes, not my mortal eyes. And I learned that friendships are eternal.
In my dorm room was a young girl from Japan, Yasuko. Yasuko and I quickly became friends. The friendship was a deep one; I felt as if I knew her before. We had never met until that year. She came home with me for Christmas. My dad kept remarking how we looked alike. Our mortal faces were not alike at all. My dad was seeing our eternal friendship.
I got the opportunity to visit Yasuko in Japan years later when I was in the Army. She showed me what living in Japan was like. What I noticed was how friendly and helpful they were. I didn't need to speak their language or ask for help. I was a visitor and they watched out for me.
I met Yasuko once later in San Francsisco, and years later she came to Utah. We kept in touch over the years, but eventually (as friendships have a habit of doing) we lost contact. I don't know where she is now or if she is safe, but I know we will meet again on the Other Side and our friendship is still secure.
I have some pictures from that time of my life I wish to share. The pictures show that friendship excels beyond language, skin color or religion. True friendship is nothing more than the immortal love our Father in Heaven wants us to have here on earth. Yasuko and I have that. Someday we will meet again.
I have written a poem in tribute to all my friends. Please take a moment to read it under poems.
LHR (words to live by: love, honor, and respect)
Yasuko on top, Bernice and me on the bottom.
Yasuko, me, Yasuko. Bottom: Yasuko and me. Last pic: Marlyn on top, Elizabeth and Yasuko.
Many of the students did not speak English very well. Many of us did not speak another language, yet we all got along and communicated.
I learned to admire and accept all cultures. I learned to love and see through my soul's eyes, not my mortal eyes. And I learned that friendships are eternal.
In my dorm room was a young girl from Japan, Yasuko. Yasuko and I quickly became friends. The friendship was a deep one; I felt as if I knew her before. We had never met until that year. She came home with me for Christmas. My dad kept remarking how we looked alike. Our mortal faces were not alike at all. My dad was seeing our eternal friendship.
I got the opportunity to visit Yasuko in Japan years later when I was in the Army. She showed me what living in Japan was like. What I noticed was how friendly and helpful they were. I didn't need to speak their language or ask for help. I was a visitor and they watched out for me.
I met Yasuko once later in San Francsisco, and years later she came to Utah. We kept in touch over the years, but eventually (as friendships have a habit of doing) we lost contact. I don't know where she is now or if she is safe, but I know we will meet again on the Other Side and our friendship is still secure.
I have some pictures from that time of my life I wish to share. The pictures show that friendship excels beyond language, skin color or religion. True friendship is nothing more than the immortal love our Father in Heaven wants us to have here on earth. Yasuko and I have that. Someday we will meet again.
I have written a poem in tribute to all my friends. Please take a moment to read it under poems.
LHR (words to live by: love, honor, and respect)
Yasuko on top, Bernice and me on the bottom.
Yasuko, me, Yasuko. Bottom: Yasuko and me. Last pic: Marlyn on top, Elizabeth and Yasuko.
Sunday, March 13, 2011
What's Your Funny Bone
As you might have surmised, I am a most serious person. But I do have a funny side. Today, I am going to post the jokes that I cannot forget and that tickle my funny bone whenever I think of them. I guess I'm just in the mood to laugh.
Robin Williams was once asked what kind of weapon he'd create if he could. His answer? An ICBM Nerf bomb. Then he yelled: "Incoming!"
George Carlin once remarked how everyone now carries a bottle of water with them. Then he asked, "When did we become such a thirsty society?"
A comedian on The Johnny Carson show once stated: MD stands for Me Doctor.
Another comedian once remarked how signs that say 'No Dogs Allowed Except for Seeing Eye Dogs' was put on doors at dog level. Then he asked what dog could read, and went into reading the sign like George Jetson's dog.
One early morning, a woman woke up when her alarm went off. She went downstairs, opened the blind, uncovered her parrot, made coffee and sat down. The phone rang. It was her boyfriend saying he couldn't make their outing. She hung up, pulled down the blind, turned off the coffee maker, covered the bird, and went back to bed. A few minutes later, the parrot said, "My, this was a short day."
One day a woman went to the store. It took longer than expected. While she was away the plumber came and rang the door bell. The parrot yelled: "Who is it?" The man said, "It's the plumber." The parrot yelled: "Who is it?" The man repeated, "It's the plumber." The bird asked again. This time the man yelled: "It's the plumber!" This went on for quite a while, until the plumber, exhaused, passed out at the door. The woman came home right then and asked, "Oh my gosh, who is it?' And the parrot yelled: "It's the plumber!"
Why did the elephant lay on the sidewalk? To trip ants.
Zha Zha Gabor once said, "I have never hated a man enough to give his diamonds back."
W.C Fields remarked, "I never drink water because of the disgusting things fish do in it."
Groucho Marx once said, "I was married by a judge. I should have asked for a jury."
Finally, two from my favorite humorist, Mark Twain:
"Be careful reading health books. You may die from a misprint."
"Last week I stated this woman was the ugliest woman I've ever seen. I have since been visited by her sister and wish to withdraw that statement."
Okay, friends, now it's your turn to post on your blogs jokes that make you laugh.
LHR
Robin Williams was once asked what kind of weapon he'd create if he could. His answer? An ICBM Nerf bomb. Then he yelled: "Incoming!"
George Carlin once remarked how everyone now carries a bottle of water with them. Then he asked, "When did we become such a thirsty society?"
A comedian on The Johnny Carson show once stated: MD stands for Me Doctor.
Another comedian once remarked how signs that say 'No Dogs Allowed Except for Seeing Eye Dogs' was put on doors at dog level. Then he asked what dog could read, and went into reading the sign like George Jetson's dog.
One early morning, a woman woke up when her alarm went off. She went downstairs, opened the blind, uncovered her parrot, made coffee and sat down. The phone rang. It was her boyfriend saying he couldn't make their outing. She hung up, pulled down the blind, turned off the coffee maker, covered the bird, and went back to bed. A few minutes later, the parrot said, "My, this was a short day."
One day a woman went to the store. It took longer than expected. While she was away the plumber came and rang the door bell. The parrot yelled: "Who is it?" The man said, "It's the plumber." The parrot yelled: "Who is it?" The man repeated, "It's the plumber." The bird asked again. This time the man yelled: "It's the plumber!" This went on for quite a while, until the plumber, exhaused, passed out at the door. The woman came home right then and asked, "Oh my gosh, who is it?' And the parrot yelled: "It's the plumber!"
Why did the elephant lay on the sidewalk? To trip ants.
Zha Zha Gabor once said, "I have never hated a man enough to give his diamonds back."
W.C Fields remarked, "I never drink water because of the disgusting things fish do in it."
Groucho Marx once said, "I was married by a judge. I should have asked for a jury."
Finally, two from my favorite humorist, Mark Twain:
"Be careful reading health books. You may die from a misprint."
"Last week I stated this woman was the ugliest woman I've ever seen. I have since been visited by her sister and wish to withdraw that statement."
Okay, friends, now it's your turn to post on your blogs jokes that make you laugh.
LHR
Friday, March 11, 2011
Sayings of Mark Twain
Let's face it, folks. Mark Twain is one of America's greatest writers and a humorist. What I love about him is his creative thought process. He sure could come up with some unforgetful sayings. Even his name - who would have thought to use it as a pen name? He did. How many young people today even know what it means, or for that matter, read any of his books?
I realized this week that I have not posted any inspirational words of wisdom for awhile. Keeping with 'Achievements', I have posted one of my favorite Mark Twain quotes. Not only does it give me a good laugh, but the wisdom in this simple saying is ageless.
Take a look and see if you don't agree.
LHR
I realized this week that I have not posted any inspirational words of wisdom for awhile. Keeping with 'Achievements', I have posted one of my favorite Mark Twain quotes. Not only does it give me a good laugh, but the wisdom in this simple saying is ageless.
Take a look and see if you don't agree.
LHR
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
My Favorite Poet Blogs
I want to direct my readers' attention to 2 poetry blogs that I love to follow.
The first is Jennifer's: everythingitntales.blogspot.com
Jennifer's poetry is very professional. She writes some of the best poetry out there. Recently, several of her poems were featured in an online magazine, and I can see why. Jennifer is serious about her work, which I think adds to the brilliance of her poetry. I noticed her work when I signed up for a poetry site on WD and knew we would make great friends. Jennifer is a very supportive friend, a quality not everyone has. Her work is highly creative.
The second poet I'd like to point out is Shiv. His site is shivpoetry.blogspot.com Shiv's poetry really touches me. This is a human being whose poems often reach depths most of us can't. Couple that with his poetic translations of ancient India poetry, and you will stand in awe of his abilities as I do. When you go to his blog, he plays some beautiful music. I could just stay there all day and listen. He, too, is a loving and supportive friend.
To write fine poetry, one must delve deep within one's soul carefully and extract those vibrations that are emitted. Then just put it down on paper. Sounds easy, but poetry is not simple. One must listen to one's soul carefully to catch these vibrations. And today, many never think about soul versus mortal body. As I have said many times: My heart belongs to writing, but my soul belongs to poetry. And these two individuals have souls I love hearing from. I am honored to call them my friends.
LHR
The first is Jennifer's: everythingitntales.blogspot.com
Jennifer's poetry is very professional. She writes some of the best poetry out there. Recently, several of her poems were featured in an online magazine, and I can see why. Jennifer is serious about her work, which I think adds to the brilliance of her poetry. I noticed her work when I signed up for a poetry site on WD and knew we would make great friends. Jennifer is a very supportive friend, a quality not everyone has. Her work is highly creative.
The second poet I'd like to point out is Shiv. His site is shivpoetry.blogspot.com Shiv's poetry really touches me. This is a human being whose poems often reach depths most of us can't. Couple that with his poetic translations of ancient India poetry, and you will stand in awe of his abilities as I do. When you go to his blog, he plays some beautiful music. I could just stay there all day and listen. He, too, is a loving and supportive friend.
To write fine poetry, one must delve deep within one's soul carefully and extract those vibrations that are emitted. Then just put it down on paper. Sounds easy, but poetry is not simple. One must listen to one's soul carefully to catch these vibrations. And today, many never think about soul versus mortal body. As I have said many times: My heart belongs to writing, but my soul belongs to poetry. And these two individuals have souls I love hearing from. I am honored to call them my friends.
LHR
Sunday, March 6, 2011
Always by DM Yates
'Always' is the first novel I finished. I've written poetry and stories my entire life, but would come to a point where I would lose my creative self esteem and throw them away. I do regret this. I finished 'Always' because something deep down inside of me kept pushing me to do so. As James Patterson wrote in one of his books, so it is with me: This is the story I was born to tell. My cousin Tammy and my friend Claudia read the chapters as I wrote (they would be surprised how much it's changed). I send to them my deepest thanks.
'Always' is no ordinary read. It takes the reader through the lives of the characters, covering 64 years. This story continually poured onto the pages. I sometimes wondered if I were the writer or just the typist. Day and night, the story unfolded. Tammy and Claudia encouraged me to have it published. Hard step for me to face. I finally did send a query to four agents. One agent thanked me, but not what she was looking for. One agent said she found the storyline intriguing, but not what she accepts. Two never responded. I expected replies like this because 'Always' is not just one genre.
'Always' is in the genre of Women's Fiction (big category there), but it also has New Age and spirituality concepts woven through it. Have I put you to sleep yet? Sounds like boring reading? This is a book you can't put down. I had my adult son read it. I wanted a guy to read it to see the effect. For a couple of months he insisted he wasn't interested. Finally, he said he'd give it a try. What did he think? "Mom, it's like the first Harry Potter book. The first 7 or 8 chapters, I had to keep pluggging along. After that, I'll admit I couldn't wait for what would happen next." When his favorite character had an accident, he came to me angry. "Why him? Why'd you do that to him?" It was then that I knew I had a good novel.
I still sat on it. I had tried to publish it and received rejections. I figured it would be nice for grandchildren to read. Until one day when I was in Proud Warrior Pose. I love that pose. It brings lots of energy to me, and I see my fingers touching God's fingers - making that connection. But that day, it was my two main characters reaching for me - Simon and April. It was as if Simon was saying "Tell our story." That was all it took, folks, for me to realize I must publish this book.
Thanks to the advice of my friend Norma (who is a published author of several books and one of my favorite friends) I am looking at e-publishing (once I finish checking it for the be-zillionth time). http://beishirbooks.blogspot.com
Keeping up with other bloggers, here are 6 of my favorite sentences from 'Always'. You'll find them under the 'Always' tab.
LHR
'Always' is no ordinary read. It takes the reader through the lives of the characters, covering 64 years. This story continually poured onto the pages. I sometimes wondered if I were the writer or just the typist. Day and night, the story unfolded. Tammy and Claudia encouraged me to have it published. Hard step for me to face. I finally did send a query to four agents. One agent thanked me, but not what she was looking for. One agent said she found the storyline intriguing, but not what she accepts. Two never responded. I expected replies like this because 'Always' is not just one genre.
'Always' is in the genre of Women's Fiction (big category there), but it also has New Age and spirituality concepts woven through it. Have I put you to sleep yet? Sounds like boring reading? This is a book you can't put down. I had my adult son read it. I wanted a guy to read it to see the effect. For a couple of months he insisted he wasn't interested. Finally, he said he'd give it a try. What did he think? "Mom, it's like the first Harry Potter book. The first 7 or 8 chapters, I had to keep pluggging along. After that, I'll admit I couldn't wait for what would happen next." When his favorite character had an accident, he came to me angry. "Why him? Why'd you do that to him?" It was then that I knew I had a good novel.
I still sat on it. I had tried to publish it and received rejections. I figured it would be nice for grandchildren to read. Until one day when I was in Proud Warrior Pose. I love that pose. It brings lots of energy to me, and I see my fingers touching God's fingers - making that connection. But that day, it was my two main characters reaching for me - Simon and April. It was as if Simon was saying "Tell our story." That was all it took, folks, for me to realize I must publish this book.
Thanks to the advice of my friend Norma (who is a published author of several books and one of my favorite friends) I am looking at e-publishing (once I finish checking it for the be-zillionth time). http://beishirbooks.blogspot.com
Keeping up with other bloggers, here are 6 of my favorite sentences from 'Always'. You'll find them under the 'Always' tab.
LHR
Thursday, March 3, 2011
Geraldina Strikes Again
I wrote a short Geraldina post for two of my favorite friends. They are also two of the best writers I've read, and exceptional erotica writers. The two neighbors are a tribute to their two lovers.
Although I do not write erotica, I wanted to write how Geraldina would react. And that's what I've done. I hope you enjoy Geraldina's latest encounter.
Please be aware this is not like my normal writings.
LHR
Although I do not write erotica, I wanted to write how Geraldina would react. And that's what I've done. I hope you enjoy Geraldina's latest encounter.
Please be aware this is not like my normal writings.
LHR
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
But I Want to Use my Favorite Song
Before I get to this 2nd part of copyright, a couple of suggestions were brought up by a friend, so here are the answers:
I only want to register one poem/picture, not an entire manuscript. You can if you choose. Each time you want to copyright, you must pay the fee. The copyright office will allow two or more grouped and sent in at the same time for a single fee.
If I pre-register, do I have to register or is it done automatically? We are talking about the gov't here, folks. If you pre-register, you must then follow through and register. You must pay the fees for pre-registering and also for registering.
The 2nd part of copyrighting that comes up often is if you can use information from another author, type out the lyrics to your favorite song, or copy and use a picture you saw online. Lucky for you, it is an 'easy' check online, although time consuming.
How to find if your favorite song is copyrighted (and good luck with this): Just go to www.copyright.gov Click on 'Search Copyright Records' then click on 'Search the Catalog'. It's that simple! But wait! There are some things you must know.
Copyright records before 1978: This is more like a manual search. I downloaded the book from a library to research on one particular song. This area is grey. Many works copyrighted were not renewed. Many works were published, but not copyrighted and the estate's then copyrighted. If the material you are looking for is before 1978, be prepared for a confusing search. Again, you can have a lawyer who deals with copyrights search for a fee. The copyright office will also search for you - for a fee. The worst time on copyrighting was the War years in the 1940's.
Good news: If the work was published before 1923, it is now in public domain. Again, though, be careful here as the estate may have re-copyrighted it.
From 1978 on: Just search the catalog. Easy enough. Type in the title. In many cases, there will be pages and pages and pages to go through. Or you can hire that lawyer or pay the Copyright Office to research for you.
Just how much does the Copyright Office charge and how long does it take? Good question. Here is their answer from their website:The U.S. Copyright Office offers a search service for persons interested in investigating whether a work is under copyright protection and, if so, the facts of the copyright. For a fee of $165 per hour or fraction thereof (2 hour minimum), the office will search its public records and provide a report of its findings. Based on the information you furnish below, we will provide an estimate of the total search fee before conducting the search.
Their timeframe is 2-6 weeks after receiving your request. It is based on the nature of the search.
The good news here is that they will give you an estimated cost first. That would certainly help you decide whether or not to have them search.
Bottom line: Folks, I had experience here. Want my honest opinion? If you are an unpublished author/poet, don't even go this route. Don't bother with wanting to add to your book. Once you become world famous, it's a different story, but think back to books you've read by famous authors. How many have had lyrics or pictures (not theirs) in the book? I know of two books I've read, and I've read a lot.
I heard you could copy and print someone else's work: Ok. This is a fine line. A fine line! This is essentially for textbooks, teaching books, etc. If yours is a fiction novel, don't even think about it.
When my book is published, isn't the publishing house or my agent at fault for something copyrighted that I use? Good try! Are you world famous? Then it is you who are responsible. If you think being sued for copyright won't happen because you are new, think again. If you think it can't happen to you, go online and search for writers sued for copyright infringement. There will be plenty of cases of new writers and well-established writers. Here's my advice again. Don't use it. What good is it to get your first work published and then be sued for huge amounts?
A little test: Think you are smart enough to work the copyrights? Let's see.
go to 'www.copyright.gov'
click on 'Search Copyright Records'
click on 'Search the Catalog'
look up 'Happy Birthday lyrics' written in 1893
now look up 'I'll be Seeing You lyrics'
now look up 'I'll be Seeing You' without lyrics after it
finally, look up any one song you want.
And that, folks, is how copyrighting works.
LHR
I only want to register one poem/picture, not an entire manuscript. You can if you choose. Each time you want to copyright, you must pay the fee. The copyright office will allow two or more grouped and sent in at the same time for a single fee.
If I pre-register, do I have to register or is it done automatically? We are talking about the gov't here, folks. If you pre-register, you must then follow through and register. You must pay the fees for pre-registering and also for registering.
The 2nd part of copyrighting that comes up often is if you can use information from another author, type out the lyrics to your favorite song, or copy and use a picture you saw online. Lucky for you, it is an 'easy' check online, although time consuming.
How to find if your favorite song is copyrighted (and good luck with this): Just go to www.copyright.gov Click on 'Search Copyright Records' then click on 'Search the Catalog'. It's that simple! But wait! There are some things you must know.
Copyright records before 1978: This is more like a manual search. I downloaded the book from a library to research on one particular song. This area is grey. Many works copyrighted were not renewed. Many works were published, but not copyrighted and the estate's then copyrighted. If the material you are looking for is before 1978, be prepared for a confusing search. Again, you can have a lawyer who deals with copyrights search for a fee. The copyright office will also search for you - for a fee. The worst time on copyrighting was the War years in the 1940's.
Good news: If the work was published before 1923, it is now in public domain. Again, though, be careful here as the estate may have re-copyrighted it.
From 1978 on: Just search the catalog. Easy enough. Type in the title. In many cases, there will be pages and pages and pages to go through. Or you can hire that lawyer or pay the Copyright Office to research for you.
Just how much does the Copyright Office charge and how long does it take? Good question. Here is their answer from their website:The U.S. Copyright Office offers a search service for persons interested in investigating whether a work is under copyright protection and, if so, the facts of the copyright. For a fee of $165 per hour or fraction thereof (2 hour minimum), the office will search its public records and provide a report of its findings. Based on the information you furnish below, we will provide an estimate of the total search fee before conducting the search.
Their timeframe is 2-6 weeks after receiving your request. It is based on the nature of the search.
The good news here is that they will give you an estimated cost first. That would certainly help you decide whether or not to have them search.
Bottom line: Folks, I had experience here. Want my honest opinion? If you are an unpublished author/poet, don't even go this route. Don't bother with wanting to add to your book. Once you become world famous, it's a different story, but think back to books you've read by famous authors. How many have had lyrics or pictures (not theirs) in the book? I know of two books I've read, and I've read a lot.
I heard you could copy and print someone else's work: Ok. This is a fine line. A fine line! This is essentially for textbooks, teaching books, etc. If yours is a fiction novel, don't even think about it.
When my book is published, isn't the publishing house or my agent at fault for something copyrighted that I use? Good try! Are you world famous? Then it is you who are responsible. If you think being sued for copyright won't happen because you are new, think again. If you think it can't happen to you, go online and search for writers sued for copyright infringement. There will be plenty of cases of new writers and well-established writers. Here's my advice again. Don't use it. What good is it to get your first work published and then be sued for huge amounts?
A little test: Think you are smart enough to work the copyrights? Let's see.
go to 'www.copyright.gov'
click on 'Search Copyright Records'
click on 'Search the Catalog'
look up 'Happy Birthday lyrics' written in 1893
now look up 'I'll be Seeing You lyrics'
now look up 'I'll be Seeing You' without lyrics after it
finally, look up any one song you want.
And that, folks, is how copyrighting works.
LHR
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
The How To's of Copyrighting
Once I finished my first manuscript, friends and relatives wanted me to copyright it. I decided to research the pros and cons first. Now that I am getting my manuscript ready, I am sharing with you all the secret facts I've found. (Whew! A lot of info)
Tangible Form
The US Copyright Office states that once your creation (whatever it is) is in tangible form, it is copyrighted. The problem comes in with legal issues. This is particularly important when another creator takes you to court for stealing their work.
What is protected by copyright? It is better to ask what isn't protected: idea/system/method/device/name/title.
If you think your title of your book should be protected - it can't be. The title is not covered under copyright.
You still want to copyright it the 'correct' way to be safe. No problem. Just some typical govt steps are required.
Keep in Mind - Keep in mind if you are submitting to a reputable agent/publishing company, you really don't need to copyright it, except for your own piece of mind.
What a hassle. What did you expect? You're dealing with the govt. Still sure you want to register it at the US Copyright Office? To make it simple, you can have a law firm do the work for you. Legalzoom.com advertises their services. You just need to fill out an online form and pay them $114 plus the $35 copyright registration fee. Too high? Well, you can do it on your own. After all, you did write your book by yourself, didn't you?
What is my first step? Your first step is to decide paper or electronic (you can save money and time by using the electronic method)
But what about Poor Man's Copyright? You're kidding, right? It really is nothing more than a rumor. It may or may not stand up in court. Do you want to take that chance with your precious baby?
Ok, what's the next step? You must decide whether you want to pre-register (involves more money and time) or go right to registering. Pre-register can only be used if you are unpublished.
What's the benefit of pre-registering? If you think someone has stolen your material or is claiming you stole theirs, that's what pre-registering is for. The cost is $115, and if you change your mind it is not refundable. Come on, did you think the gov't would give it back? That involves even more paperwork. If not, save yourself money and time and skip this step.
Registering for copyright. Realize nothing is free in our free country. Registration electronically is $35 (remember Legal Zoom above). Paper registration is $50 Now there can and usually are other fees or charges. For instance, Let's say you're in a hurry and you want it now. To expedite the handling of the registration is a mere $760 plus $50 per work. Fed Ex is $40. Do you really need to expedite it? Totally up to you.
Do I get a certificate? You can, if you want one. Of course it costs. Do you need one? If you have registered, you have registered. If you need it for legal matters, then get one. Or perhaps you want to frame it on your hero's wall. It will cost, but it might look nice hanging on that wall.
Does the copyright cover all countries? Don't you wish. The US has contracts on copyrighting with most countries, but not all.
I'm going to do it! Great. Be aware you must transmit or mail your manuscript/work to them. One copy is required for unpublished, 2 copies for published.
But I'm writing a collection and it's all not finished yet. That's ok. Send the manuscript with all the titles you plan to put in there. This is actually good for poetry and assundry items. You don't have to copyright each piece, but you will have to send them all eventually. Check the gov't's website for the timeframe.
Think about this: Do you want your manuscript to be placed in libraries? If you do, guess what? You have to get the little library number for that work. How do you do that? You pay the copyright office $50 and they notify the libraries. Now your book can be library-ized.
Just how long is this going to take? Electronically, 4 to 5 months, although many are registered sooner. Paper request (paper request? You're kidding!) up to 15 months. One of the benefits of electronically registering is that you can follow the progress online.
I just do e-books, so I don't need to copyright. Stop right there! Any manuscript can be stolen or someone claim you stole their works. Going self-published or e-books, you don't have the benefit of an agent working with you on this. Piracy on e-anything is a great business. Again, it is your decision.
My work is already out there. You can, at any time register for a copyright. But if someone else beats you to it, there's that law suit again.
Anything else I should know? You betcha. Keep in mind that registering for copyrights is a public record. Anyone can search through these. The US Copyright Office does not sell your information, it is public record.
What else do I need to know? You can ask your questions at www.copyright.gov It's a fairly friendly site. Don't trust answers posted in forums. This is your baby. Know its and your rights.
But I still don't know if I should or shouldn't. This is your choice. Up to you. Weigh the facts and make a decision based on your needs (or fears). A word of caution: be careful who you share your writings with. Make sure you trust that person.
Are you going to copyright your manuscript? Huh? Me? Um, I don't know. What do all of you think?
Where did you find all this info at? all questions and answers (except for Legal Zoom) were found at:
www.copyright.gov
This author does not endorse Legal Zoom nor have any business ties with Legal Zoom. It is only used as an example.
Tangible Form
The US Copyright Office states that once your creation (whatever it is) is in tangible form, it is copyrighted. The problem comes in with legal issues. This is particularly important when another creator takes you to court for stealing their work.
What is protected by copyright? It is better to ask what isn't protected: idea/system/method/device/name/title.
If you think your title of your book should be protected - it can't be. The title is not covered under copyright.
You still want to copyright it the 'correct' way to be safe. No problem. Just some typical govt steps are required.
Keep in Mind - Keep in mind if you are submitting to a reputable agent/publishing company, you really don't need to copyright it, except for your own piece of mind.
What a hassle. What did you expect? You're dealing with the govt. Still sure you want to register it at the US Copyright Office? To make it simple, you can have a law firm do the work for you. Legalzoom.com advertises their services. You just need to fill out an online form and pay them $114 plus the $35 copyright registration fee. Too high? Well, you can do it on your own. After all, you did write your book by yourself, didn't you?
What is my first step? Your first step is to decide paper or electronic (you can save money and time by using the electronic method)
But what about Poor Man's Copyright? You're kidding, right? It really is nothing more than a rumor. It may or may not stand up in court. Do you want to take that chance with your precious baby?
Ok, what's the next step? You must decide whether you want to pre-register (involves more money and time) or go right to registering. Pre-register can only be used if you are unpublished.
What's the benefit of pre-registering? If you think someone has stolen your material or is claiming you stole theirs, that's what pre-registering is for. The cost is $115, and if you change your mind it is not refundable. Come on, did you think the gov't would give it back? That involves even more paperwork. If not, save yourself money and time and skip this step.
Registering for copyright. Realize nothing is free in our free country. Registration electronically is $35 (remember Legal Zoom above). Paper registration is $50 Now there can and usually are other fees or charges. For instance, Let's say you're in a hurry and you want it now. To expedite the handling of the registration is a mere $760 plus $50 per work. Fed Ex is $40. Do you really need to expedite it? Totally up to you.
Do I get a certificate? You can, if you want one. Of course it costs. Do you need one? If you have registered, you have registered. If you need it for legal matters, then get one. Or perhaps you want to frame it on your hero's wall. It will cost, but it might look nice hanging on that wall.
Does the copyright cover all countries? Don't you wish. The US has contracts on copyrighting with most countries, but not all.
I'm going to do it! Great. Be aware you must transmit or mail your manuscript/work to them. One copy is required for unpublished, 2 copies for published.
But I'm writing a collection and it's all not finished yet. That's ok. Send the manuscript with all the titles you plan to put in there. This is actually good for poetry and assundry items. You don't have to copyright each piece, but you will have to send them all eventually. Check the gov't's website for the timeframe.
Think about this: Do you want your manuscript to be placed in libraries? If you do, guess what? You have to get the little library number for that work. How do you do that? You pay the copyright office $50 and they notify the libraries. Now your book can be library-ized.
Just how long is this going to take? Electronically, 4 to 5 months, although many are registered sooner. Paper request (paper request? You're kidding!) up to 15 months. One of the benefits of electronically registering is that you can follow the progress online.
I just do e-books, so I don't need to copyright. Stop right there! Any manuscript can be stolen or someone claim you stole their works. Going self-published or e-books, you don't have the benefit of an agent working with you on this. Piracy on e-anything is a great business. Again, it is your decision.
My work is already out there. You can, at any time register for a copyright. But if someone else beats you to it, there's that law suit again.
Anything else I should know? You betcha. Keep in mind that registering for copyrights is a public record. Anyone can search through these. The US Copyright Office does not sell your information, it is public record.
What else do I need to know? You can ask your questions at www.copyright.gov It's a fairly friendly site. Don't trust answers posted in forums. This is your baby. Know its and your rights.
But I still don't know if I should or shouldn't. This is your choice. Up to you. Weigh the facts and make a decision based on your needs (or fears). A word of caution: be careful who you share your writings with. Make sure you trust that person.
Are you going to copyright your manuscript? Huh? Me? Um, I don't know. What do all of you think?
Where did you find all this info at? all questions and answers (except for Legal Zoom) were found at:
www.copyright.gov
This author does not endorse Legal Zoom nor have any business ties with Legal Zoom. It is only used as an example.
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