Linked Questions
11 questions linked to/from Using the real world in writing
9
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3
answers
4k
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May I use real weapon names in my book without copyright problems?
I would like to use some weapon names to sound familiar to readers, (AK47, M16, C4, Colt...), but as far as I have heard, using real names from weapons one must have the permission of the companies (...
1
vote
1
answer
163
views
Real places in Fictional writing [duplicate]
I am writing a fictional novel. Is it okay to add factual information amongst my characters? For example my destination in the story, or geographical areas in my story.
3
votes
0
answers
67
views
If I use a real building in a real city could I be liable for some sort of lawsuit? [duplicate]
I want to use a real building (skyscraper) in a real city that will be the subject of a terrorist attack and partially brought down with disastrous effect on the surrounding neighborhood. Good idea ...
1
vote
4
answers
934
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Can a Town/City Sue an Author for a Bad Portrayal in Fiction?
Lets say we choose a random town off of google maps on which to base a story where the local authorities (we won't say police, or whatnot, but local authorities) perform an investigation that is ...
8
votes
2
answers
232
views
Do I need permission to name organizations in a non-fiction book?
I am self-publishing a dog photography book. I have obtained permissions for all subjects in the book. One of the pictures I am using has the American Kennel Club (AKC) logo in it. I'm assuming I need ...
0
votes
1
answer
840
views
Can I reference real companies in a novel? [duplicate]
I'm starting to work through some ideas with a book I want to write. The protagonist is computer science genius that finds flaws and breaks through the security of several major companies. I'm not ...
6
votes
3
answers
12k
views
Referencing real and fictional people/characters in novels - legal implications
I've been going out of my way to avoid referencing famous people in my novel as well as fictional characters, but I keep seeing pop culture references in other books I read as well as in TV shows, ...
3
votes
1
answer
5k
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Can I use a real college in my fiction book? [duplicate]
So for the novel I'm writing, the main character is a college student living in Michigan. Is it okay for me to have her go to a college that really is in Michigan? I wouldn't be displaying it in a ...
2
votes
1
answer
149
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I want to reference TV shows and other media in my story. how do I avoid copyright issues?
It's still early yet, but I'm working on fantasy novel. To cut a long story short, it features characters from Earth in a fresh fantasy setting, and one of the cast is a bit of nerdy and inclined to ...
0
votes
0
answers
40
views
Use of Building names in Fiction [duplicate]
I know that using branded companies names is a no no if shown in a negative light, but what is the "legal" Stance on Buildings that get damaged/blown up/fist fight etc..?
as they are owned by a ...
4
votes
1
answer
203
views
Effect of real world brands and/or places on story tone
This is based on that question, but from a tone point of view.
Let's say I have a story taking place in a near-future version of Boston, characters are meeting for coffee.
I have no issue saying the ...