I have a book of poetry that is expressed in my own words. And their very overwhelming,and I don't want no one to still them.
2007-05-09 15:29:56 · 5 answers · asked by Sharonica W 1 in Arts & Humanities ➔ Poetry
You don't need to copyright you poems. If they are published, they are copyrighted. I don't think you need to worry about anyone "stilling" your poems. It rarely happens, and I mean RARELY, it's more or less a fantasy writers use as devices in their fiction.
2007-05-10 07:44:01 · answer #1 · answered by Dancing Bee 6 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Your works are automatically under the copyright laws once they are in a tangible form, such as printed sheet or book form. Should you wish to apply for a certicate of registration from the Library of Congress you can do that to ease your mind.
Log on to www.copyright.gov/ and review the criteria and guidelines for submitting a Form TX. The submission will cost $35 and will take about eight months to receive your certificate of registration.
As I recall, you will have to submit a hard copy of your poems to the Library of Congress and take extra care to fill out the Form TX and then sign and date it.
Meanwhile, place the copyright sign (C), the date, and your name on the front sheet in your book.
Example: (C) 2007--Sharonica
No one should "still" or steal it.
Judging by the way you expressed your question and narrative here, I would suggest a strong focus upon correct spelling and grammar requirements.
2007-05-09 22:46:18 · answer #2 · answered by Guitarpicker 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
You must apply for a copyright through the Library of Congress in Washington DC. There is a fee, but I believe it's not very high. You can find all the information you need on their web site. Just google Library of Congress, Register of Copyrights.
2007-05-09 22:54:39 · answer #3 · answered by Midnight 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
There is also what is called the "poor man's copyright", where you write or type your piece, and seal it in an envelope, and mail it to yourself. When it returns to you, never open it until your copyright is challenged.
The US postmark that will be placed on the envelope provides proof of the date, and anyone who claims the work is theirs can be proved wrong by what is known in copyright law "proof of prior art". You will win regardless.
But submitting your work to the Library of Congress and applying for a copyright and paying the fee is the other way.
2007-05-09 23:02:24 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
I believe the work must be published first. And I'll double check my spellings before doing it if I were you.
2007-05-09 22:39:57 · answer #5 · answered by peanut butter 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋