Why do some people react so weird when I message them about my poem being posted without my name?

Question

I've had several different responses to my actions to protect my copyright. Some apoligize (not always necessary) and add my name to the poem, which I think is the correct way to respond.

Some, however, attack me verbally, claiming they've got every right to post it as they like. Some respond like they are in panic, deleting the post or even all their posts. The worst are those who claimed they've written it themselves!!!

Is it so difficult to understand that, just like material property, my poem is my creative property? Or is it a internet-cultural belief, that everything online is public property?

(not sure if this is the right category for this question)

note: the poem in question can be found at http://krijthe.net/poetry/ahbea.html

Answer 1

Thank you Walter for your beautiful heartfelt poem. It really is a balm on the hurts.

There are some very different views about copyright out there. I prefer to respect copyright but people often tell me this system makes companies mega-rich at the expense of artists etc. But that is not the question you asked here, it is more about how weird the responses have been to this poem in particular.

When I read the poem I noticed it is extremely moving and deep, in fact it touches on the loneliness, suicidal feelings and heartbreak of deep depression. If you have written this from personal experience, I understand very much that you want to be heard, that it is YOU saying these words, that YOU felt that way, and it is important this is recognised.

Maybe someone who copies this poem is going through similar feelings and this is a kind of lifeline to them, or they were offering it as a lifeline to others feeling that way. If someone is feeling that desperate, maybe they do panic if their lifeline seems threatened to them, and respond irrationally or with aggression. This is in a strange way, a complement to the importance and effectiveness of your poem!

You do have the legal right to be acknowledged as the author. So when you contact them, maybe it's good to start by saying that you are delighted they are using the poem and hope it helps the readers, thank them for their interest, and request at the end that they add your name for legal reasons.

If it is handled nicely, they may be so touched that you bothered to write, as they may be feeling that low themselves, and as a result they may be only too happy to post your name as a thank you to you.

Unfortunately some people just don't believe in copyright, no matter how illegal it is! They are wrong legally, but it is so widespread and commonplace that many have lost sight of the fact that they are indeed breaking the law, and find it entirely normal. This is an issue to them about copyright, not about you or your poem specifically.

In these cases please take comfort that a poem like this may be saving many lives and turning people back from the brink by letting them know that someone else out there understands the loneliness and heartbreak they feel, and that is a priceless reward. I know it helped me a lot, and I will keep a copy, with your name gratefully acknowledged! Thank you.

Answer 2

I don't know maybe they are jealous of your talent. Your right in doing what your doing it's just the same if (Pentium company) didn't register their company and people was fighting over that I know this is so different but the theory is the same lol. Your work your property!!

Answer 3

Lovely poem, always copyright whats yours and stop worrying about other people so much, use your talent and make a living from it.

Answer 4

Protect your stuff man!!! Nice job!! B.E.A.U.tiful poem.

Answer 5

There are hardly ever any poems here. I am surprised.

Answer 6

You certainly don't have to worry about me claiming I wrote THAT!