I've noticed in some books I read, authors do not use the name of any brands or commercial chain stores etc. In other books there is mentioning of everything right down to real websites and phone models. Are there any limitations on this? Is it okay to name any movie, book, etc? What are your opinions on including pop life? I also wanted to ask about quotations. I have a character who I'd like to directly quote a movie once. If the quote's given credit, is that okay or would it be violating copyright?
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57,563 / 50,000
Jul 15, 2008 - 12 55
Ahh... you're mixing issues here. Let me separate this.
Using brand names you have to capitalize the name. This is not an infringement, but be aware this might date your work. Depends if you want the "timeless" feel or not. I this case you have to properly represent the product, etc. i.e. avoid slander and properly spell and cap the name. So, for example, Wite Out. Not White Out. Also be careful to not use it in the place of generic terms. Like Kleenex in the place of any tissue. That kind of stuff they can sue over for brand protection.
Using quotes, look up fair use. You cannot use more than 10% of any work, except for songs, where it's something like 10% or 30 percent, which ever is shorter.
Now if one should do this or not, I think really depends on the story. That includes the character, plot, work and what your aimed feel of the book is.
----------Telling someone you're a writer is like telling them you're an obsessive compulsive bipolar schizophrenic that goes to AA meetings once a week.
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Jul 18, 2008 - 12 16
Thank you!
461 / 50,000
Jul 18, 2008 - 17 15
I started to read a book by an author I like - the jacket had a cool description and I was excited. Then I started reading and was so completely appalled by the 'brand name dropping' that occurred that I stopped before getting halfway trough Chapt. one and was so turned off I have not even picked up another of her books in the 10 years since.
----------"To practice any art, no matter how well or badly, is a way to make your soul grow. So do it." - Kurt Vonnegut, Jr. (1922-2007)
2006 - Famine: A Novel - failed
2007 - A Midsummer Night's Dream...IN SPACE! - on hold