writing safety

Discussion of Castle Themed stories
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BrianofBrick06
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writing safety

Post by BrianofBrick06 »

Hey everyone, I would like to post what will probably be the first chapter of writing based around MOCs i will build. I just wanted to check on the safety of posting writing here. I am very protective of my writing (not that i think im good at all) and wanted to know if it is safe from thievery of any sort in posting it to the forum. I really hope so as i could use feedback on both my writing as well as MOC making. Any feedback is much appreciated...
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Post by smcginnis »

If you're just worried about other members stealing it, I'd say you needn't be. I know that the members here are generally pretty trustworthy. But there's always the lurker or random visiter, so I guess it depends on how much you want it read, in the end.

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Sir Kohran
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Post by Sir Kohran »

I suppose it's possible that someone could copy your work - that could happen wherever you post it - but given the relative obscurity of this board and the good nature of everyone on here, I really doubt anything like that would ever happen.

So feel free to post your stories and illustrations :wink:
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Post by Bluesecrets »

In all honesty, if you have any hope of getting published what you are writing, do not post it.

One of the first questions a publisher asks when they get submitted work is "has this ever been published online, by anyone or yourself?" If the answer is yes, they won't publish you or even continue talking to you.

If you are worried about posting your writing, then maybe you are worried for a good reason. Go with your gut instinct.
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Sir Kohran
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Post by Sir Kohran »

Bluesecrets wrote:In all honesty, if you have any hope of getting published what you are writing, do not post it.

One of the first questions a publisher asks when they get submitted work is "has this ever been published online, by anyone or yourself?" If the answer is yes, they won't publish you or even continue talking to you.

If you are worried about posting your writing, then maybe you are worried for a good reason. Go with your gut instinct.
Well he never said anything about getting it officially published.

And besides, what about the Brick Testament? That was online - and was much more prominent than any story on here - long before it was published.
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Post by Maedhros »

Bluesecrets wrote:In all honesty, if you have any hope of getting published what you are writing, do not post it.

One of the first questions a publisher asks when they get submitted work is "has this ever been published online, by anyone or yourself?" If the answer is yes, they won't publish you or even continue talking to you.
Sounds like you must have met some really narrow-minded publishers. Blogs and writing published on different websites and blogs get published as books all the time these days...

I'd say go for it, Brian. It would give you a good opportunity of having it reviewed by people who are talented and friendly alike (hopefully including myself if I get the time ;)).
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BrianofBrick06
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Post by BrianofBrick06 »

Thanks a lot everyone. I have decided that I will be posting my writing because i could really some constructive criticism. I havent been able to write for a long time and now with legos as an inspiration behind my writing I want to begin again. I would very much appreciate any feedback on my writing (fantasy writing not being a strength of mine) when i begin to post it...
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Post by Tower of Iron Will »

What I would suggest is that if you have a story of yours that you really like then save it. Create another story first to learn on. Then you can apply what you have learned to your favorite story. Like building a MOC, trying to build small structures first is easier than building cathedrals right off the bat.
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Re: writing safety

Post by quaraga »

i'd say go ahead I'd like to read it.

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ottoatm
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Re: writing safety

Post by ottoatm »

A lot of people worry about this - it crosses my mind from time to time as well. I'm sure somewhere a youngster has copied and pasted my story, and that is annoying.

You have to make a decision based on the following:

- Is your writing so good that when finished you can have this published (for most of us, the answer is no - we need practice)
- WHY do you want to write? Do you want others to read and enjoy it? Then just write, because here you have a huge audience


Note: Don't let fear stunt your growth and stop you from sharing. I've seen waaaay to many people never write anything at all because of this, just talk about their "developing story" that they aren't ready to share.

The best way to someday get published is to write - write - write and share - share - share. Collect feedback, learn from others comments. You'll grow into a better writer in the future, and you'll ALWAYS be able to think of new and cool stories. :)
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Post by Sir Zeppelin »

Bluesecrets wrote:In all honesty, if you have any hope of getting published what you are writing, do not post it.

One of the first questions a publisher asks when they get submitted work is "has this ever been published online, by anyone or yourself?" If the answer is yes, they won't publish you or even continue talking to you.
If you copyrighted it right away, you would think a publishing house wouldn't mind it being posted online. You can actually get a copyright online now (don't ask me how). Or, you can always do a poor man's copyright (that's when you mail it to yourself and don't open it. This proves you had written this on a certian date. However, this is no replacement for an actual copyright).

I'd say go ahead on 'er and post it; but that's just me.
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Re: writing safety

Post by Aliencat »

Whatever your choice is, keep in mind that this part of the forum is visible to anyone, not just registered members. Search engines can find it, and basically anyone can read it here. You may have nothing to worry about from CC members, but there's more than just them reading this ;)
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Re: writing safety

Post by Blue Moon Knight »

I was wondering the same thing, since I'm trying to write a book or two myself, and would like to hear what people think. I to am worried about copy-cats (not alien cats :wink: ). I don't think we need to worry about the forum regulars though.
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Re: writing safety

Post by Sir Zeppelin »

Blue Moon Knight wrote:I was wondering the same thing, since I'm trying to write a book or two myself, and would like to hear what people think. I to am worried about copy-cats (not alien cats :wink: ). I don't think we need to worry about the forum regulars though.
In my eyes, anyone who is to lazy to do his sown writing will be to lazy to publish it. If you post a story here, it will probably get copied and pasted, but I'd be shocked to see the person go the extra step and try to publish it.
Last edited by Sir Zeppelin on Fri Jan 22, 2010 2:11 pm, edited 1 time in total.
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Re: writing safety

Post by Blue Moon Knight »

Sir Zeppelin wrote:In my eyes, anyone who is to lazy too his sown writing will be to lazy to publish it. If you post a story here, it will probably get copied and pasted, but I'd be shocked to see the person go the extra step and try to publish it.
Trueness, but even the copy-pasty is a hassel. Not something I would want to have to deal with during this whole high school-real world transition. I wonder if it's possible to make a certain section of the forums that is restricted to members only...
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