I'm interested in writing a novel, but it would be based on the world and creatures of another novel set. It would have none of the characters or story-line in it whatsoever. The original author would be given credit as well(and He isn't alive to ask for permission by the way). So, If I write a novel that uses the world and races of another novel and give the author of that novel full credit, is that plagiarism? I'm looking for actually facts backed up by real laws. Thanks for any help.
Is writing a novel based on another, plagiarism?
- Posted:
- 3+ months ago by MercyStra...
- Topics:
- writing, novel
Details:
Added 3+ months ago:
OR Would writing a novel based on the species/races of another novel be plagiarism, if that author was given credit and the story-line, characters, an setting was completely different?
Responses (2)
No, legally you're safe as it counts as fanfiction BUT if you are writing with the intention of publishing for capital gain (money) then you're in different territory and need to speak to a lawyer who specialises in this area. It can get very specific about the details. As the author is deceased though that could make a lot of difference but again, it depends on who is still holding the copyright or trademark if one still exists.
You are not in any danger of plagerism as that is defined (loosly) as using someone elses written text verbatim and telling everyone else that you wrote it. That is not what you are suggesting, you are suggesting writting a story based in a world created by another author if I read you right.
If you want hard facts, talk to a publishing house directly, just a phone chat with a real person there would help you to clear up your questions.
Legally, you are alright and it is not considered plagiarism. However it would be classified as a fanfiction. Unless it is a shared universe though, you are stepping into a whole different realm if you plan on publishing. If you do want to publish, you need to find out who owns the rights to said fictional universe, then get the permission.