Using somebody's name - Writers Forum

littlegreenbob · 10-18-2007, 03:37 AM

When I began my novel I included the name of a very special and close friend.

Sadly she is no longer talking to me.

I dont want to take her name out of my story but I dont want to get in trouble.

The character isnt based on her in any way, shape or form. I am just using her name. There are also a few references to us but only little bits and peices.

Although the character isnt based on her it is definately her name I am using. First name only. And the references are definately about us.

Is this OK?

To give an example:

“Yes we do! We have many scented candles. We have strawberry ones which are a favourite of mine. We also have some vanilla scented candles. I am quickly beginning to like the smell of vanilla also.”

This is reference to her two favourite scents. There are many others.

Destroyer · 10-18-2007, 03:43 AM

You shouldn't have too much of a problem. If it's only the first name then there's probably little similarity between her and your character.

JHB · 10-18-2007, 04:30 AM

Just walk up to her and say "Wha'cha gonna do 'bout it, foo?"

wyf · 10-18-2007, 05:15 AM

i always change names because i dont wan tto cause embarrassment

sdavis2k · 10-18-2007, 08:20 PM

Legally since the character isn't named your friends full name, there is little she could do about it. I mean if she wanted to be uber catty and your novel did super well and became a bestseller and you sold the movie rights, she MIGHT try something then, but stuff like that rarely holds up in court.

Best example I can think of is White Wolf the company who makes the Werewolf and Vampire pen and paper games tried suing the writers and producers of Underworld, they listed something like 80 similarities between stories they had previously done and they movie. A judge threw it out.

Destroyer · 10-19-2007, 03:53 AM

Let's face it, there's only so many differences you can have in a situation like that. It's not like they hold the right to any vampire vs werewolf theme.

spider8 · 10-19-2007, 05:52 AM

'Scented candles? Yes, we do. We have many choices: Strawberry ones, which are a favourite of mine, lavenders, roses, gicoes. I am quickly beginning to like the smell of scented vanilla, also.'

Don't know if that helps. As to your question- not worth worrying about.

littlegreenbob · 10-19-2007, 10:37 PM

Thank you all for your replies.