Discussion:
What is the name of your state? I am from Portugal (Europe), but the book is to be published in California.
I am a novelist and a poet and I would like to ask if one must require any kind of permission to use the name of well-know characters in text or in the title of books.
I have a big set of poems in which Mickey Mouse is the main character. The character is only named once in each poem. The poems are not flattering for the character. I would like to know if, in case the poems are published, there is the risk of a lawsuit or if it is clearly considered fair use.
I am considering to name the character also in the title of the poetry book to be published and I would also like to know if that would be legal.
Thanks in advance for any answer.
Answer:
It would be illegal to do so without permission. If you are sued for copyright infringment it would be taken through the international courts since your in another country.
Answer:
Thanks a lot for the help. But I still have some doubts...
My doubts have to do with the fact that there are thousands of poems and even lyrics that use the name of trade marks and characters.
Would it be ok to use the name of the character if not in the title of the book?
Thanks a lot for this extra explanation.
Here are some examples that I've found after a quick search on google:
mickey mouse:
barbie:
coca-cola: