[stylist] Copyrighting titles

[Nat Barrett]

Hi,

I've been following the brief discussion on copyrighting titles. Recently in 
my writer's group we discussed this.

If I recall, some of my fellow writers commented that titles could not be 
copyrighted, but catch phrases and specific sayings could be trademarked. I 
remember a lady in my group, who is a paralegal, was the one to bring that 
up.

So I want to say, but don't quote me on it, that they mentioned something 
like Star Wars was trademarked by George Lucas. That's not a 100% certainty, 
but I remember someone mentioning that as an example. Although I have no 
idea if this is a legit example.

Anyway, if anyone else can verify my info, that would be helpful. I'm 
interested to know more regarding the legal stuff.

Natalie



--------------------------------------------------
From: "Bridgit Pollpeter" <bpollpeter at hotmail.com>
Sent: Friday, January 21, 2011 10:53 AM
To: <stylist at nfbnet.org>
Subject: [stylist] Copyrighting titles

> I have seen titles replicated so I assume there is not copyright law
> prohibiting it, but I know you can copyright a catch phrase, like, "The
> Devil made me do it."  Paris Hilton was able to copyright, "That's hot."
> Disgusting!  *smirk*  Not sure how this works.
>
> What about tag lines or catch phrases like, "Just do it," or, "Be all
> you can be."  These are copyrighted, I believe.
>
> Bridgit
>
>
> _______________________________________________
> Writers Division web site:
> http://www.nfb-writers-division.org <http://www.nfb-writers-division.org/>
>
> stylist mailing list
> stylist at nfbnet.org
> http://www.nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/stylist_nfbnet.org
> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for 
> stylist:
> http://www.nfbnet.org/mailman/options/stylist_nfbnet.org/hawaiianstar%40gmail.com