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565 Reviews



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Points: 1395
Reviews: 565
Thu Dec 11, 2008 10:08 pm
Stori says...



I'm curious. If you wanted to use another author's world, say the Star Wars galaxy, who do you contact? The original author? The publishing company?
  





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425 Reviews



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Thu Dec 11, 2008 10:12 pm
Nate says...



Per the Fair Use Act, as long as you don't use it for profit, you're fine. Otherwise, you got to contact Lucas Film for permission to use a world in the Star Wars Universe (even if it's just in the books).
  





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565 Reviews



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Thu Dec 11, 2008 10:42 pm
Stori says...



So, I have to ask for permission only if I want the story officially published.
  





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Tue Jan 06, 2009 4:02 pm
Sorsha2 says...



Generally speaking yes, but I would be careful regardless - make mention in a blurb before you post that your are aware you're making use of another author's concept so there is no confusion/backlash. I think posting even if on the internet (without making a profit) is still considered plagarism to most, and is frowned upon in most cases.

Would it really be so difficult for you to just create your own world? We are writers after all, it's what we do :) I just think, to save yourself the headache, it would be worth the extra hours brainstorming.

~ Cheers.
  





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53 Reviews



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Sat Jan 24, 2009 9:59 pm
Avens Dolor says...



If it's something like fanfiction, then you don't really need to worry about anything. If you're intending to publish or use it in a portfolio or non-fanfiction affiliated contest for cash or credit, then be careful. Overall, I think that writers are generally pretty forgiving, as long as the work is just for practice or fun.
  





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71 Reviews



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Sun Feb 08, 2009 10:59 pm
Luvzi12 says...



One guy made a website about a lot of the magical creatures in Harry Potter and J. K. Rowling sued him, so if you're planning to do something like that then be careful ;)
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