1-11 Other Uses For "Mailbox" Information

(c) 2010 by Mona Leeson Vanek

You can also use the system of creating Mailboxes (described in Handout -- Efficient Writing Steps 2, 3 & 4) to simplify other tasks related to your work, such as saving copies of e-query letters, e-assignments from editors (or rejections), and e-contracts, and recording payment, invoices, writing expenses, and a time sheet.

At income tax time, compiling your figures will be easier when they're organized!

Using computer-based software, devise a digital system that works for you. Do each step. Also, after publication, you may file scanned copies when you register your copyrights. Copyrights become Intellectual Property, which also can, and should be, included in your will. Original copyright documents belong in your safety deposit box, the same as real property titles.

In your hardcopy files, also store photocopies of your published articles. These are your "clips" that editors ask for. Think of clips as evidence that you are professional. A substantial file of clips helps when you're negotiating for higher fees for your writing. You can always scan a copy if an editor wants it via e-mail.
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Chapter 1, http://tinyurl.com/2es3w63

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6-1 Strong Fictional Characters

(c) Mona Leeson Vanek

This advice is shared by Alan Girling, Freelance Writer.

"Do you need to study strong female fictional characters? Have you related to those in books such as the Taming of the Shrew; Jane Eyre; Anne of Green Gables? At All About Romance - At The Back Fence, http://www.likesbooks.com/102.html, you'll find a long, interesting and very thorough essay on heroines in classic fiction and modern romance with detailed descriptions, many links, and relevant quotations from discussed books." ~~ Alan Girling
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Chapter 13 - Genre Writing and Writing for Children: http://tinyurl.com/3x33osl

Next: 6-2, All About Names: http://tinyurl.com/32vyakh

6-5 Song Lyrics, Fair Use & Trademarks

(c) 2010 by Mona Leeson Vanek

Song lyrics are not quotable without direct permission from the copyright holder, and even then you often have to pay for the use. To avoid a possible problem, you need to go to the rights manager of that particular song. Don't use *any* song lyrics without permission. They *will* sue. No sane publisher will let you do it, either.

Publishers have tight rules for songs. Small press publishers refuse to publish stories that include ANY song lyrics due to the cost of obtaining permission and rights.

When you quote lyrics "blah, blah, blah," and then the rest of whatever you're writing. Then make a note at the end and ALWAYS include the publisher:

• written by xxxxxx
• originally performed by xxxxxx
• published by xxxxxx, Inc.

Fair use is pretty restrictive and does not apply to many published materials, including music lyrics and poetry. There's no real definition of fair use for anything--it's what the court says it is, and the plaintiffs have better lawyers than you do.

Don't use Mickey Mouse as a character in your story, either. Disney is famous for prosecuting people, even the ones who don't have any money. Some fanfic is okay, but some is not, and they'll get you if you use the wrong character. Avoid trouble by being very very careful to not infringe copyrights or trademarks!
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Chapter 13 - Genre Writing and Writing for Children: http://tinyurl.com/3x33osl

Next: 6-6 e-Zines By The Dozen, http://tinyurl.com/32lag6w