Expert: Shannon Moore - 9/29/2009

Question
I've heard that while specific language and characters in a novel are copyrighted, the plot itself is not subject to copyright protection. Is this correct?

Answer
Dear Will,

Thanks for revamping the question - answering a specific scenario is far too involved as there are so many factors at play so it would've been impossible to provide you a clearcut answer.

That being said, you are correct. Plots fall into the realm of ideas & here's what the Copyright Office has to say about that:

"Copyright does not protect ideas, concepts, systems, or methods of doing something. You may express your ideas in writing or drawings and claim copyright in your description, but be aware that copyright will not protect the idea itself as revealed in your written or artistic work."

http://www.copyright.gov/help/faq/faq-protect.html#idea -- Link to above

Hope this helps! Please let me know if I can assist you with any other questions.

Warmest regards,
Shannon Moore
http://www.tmexpress.com
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