You Can Quote Me

I read somewhere that writers should avoid using cliques. I include quotes in that advice. That is unless your character speaks in quotes. That would be an interesting character. If you fancy creating someone like that in your writing feel free.

 

 

I think refraining from using quotes and cliques is a good idea. It’s my novel and I want my talent, my words to shine. One day I want my words to be quoted. Don’t you?

 

 

Before each of my chapters I have quotes that I got off the internet. I’m using them to give my readers an idea of what’s going to happen in that following chapter. I also have a couple of song quotes. Researching on Goggle I need permission to use the quotes and there are many exceptions. I got dizzy trying to figure out what is okay wand what is not. It depends on where you find the quote. Is it from a free domain site? Then it’s okay to use.  It also depends on the date of the quote. I read if the quote is over 75 years old it is safe to use. Another site said if the quote is written before 1923 it is no longer is protected by copyright laws. There is a catch, some old quotes, books, and songs can have updated copyrights. Then you will need permission.

 

 

Digging through 28 chapters of quotes to see if I can use them or where to request permission for all is too much work. I put a lot of work in writing and editing Hidden Temptation. I don’t need to do any extra so I’m deleting the quote and song references. Why don’t I take my chances? Because I hope Hidden Temptation becomes one of The New York Times bestseller’s top 20. If that happens I could be sued. I can’t afford to be sued even if I become a millionaire. Do I sound materialistic? I’m not it will be nice to not have to worry about money.

 

 

I going top try to give each chapter a title or not. Maybe I’ll write a poem with 28 lines or more. This will make it easier to quote me. Yes, I want my words to be famous before I die.  I’ll keep you posted.

 

Do you like using quotes? Why?

 

After reading this will you still use quotes?

 

I hope my experience helps fellow writers create a higher quality of art. I do not presume that Hidden Temptation is perfect or of professional quality but I do believe it is close. Your opinions, thoughts, and feedback are most welcome. Please feel free to create an open thread and share thoughts, and opinions so that we can help each other grow as a community of writers.

 

Disclaimer:  I completed Hidden Temptation, my first completed novel, and this blog is a humble attempt to create interest in its debut. I am not a professional and this is no way an educational guide.  I am merely sharing my writing experience, what I pick up reading other novels, and what I learn in the process of completing Hidden Temptation.