Hi all, this is Leonard with a Launch Team update.
First of all, to all the beta readers, thank you very much for your input. I really appreciated your feedback. By the way, if there's anything you wish to add, it's not too late.
Meanwhile, my editor pointed out another important issue: quoting popular song lyrics in the manuscript. I must admit, I somewhat exaggerate with that. To me, quoted lyrics often act like a soundtrack. A line from the song with an action (they dance, or they drive, or whatever else they may be doing) creates a movie-like impression. But the problem is that songs, even from 30 or 40 years ago, are still copyrighted. And that brings the question of fair use.
What is the fair use policy? How much can one quote without getting permission? Apparently, there's no set definition. At least, I couldn't find one. My editor strongly advises against quoting, warning that even a single line may be seen as excessive. Joe, on our group coaching call, suggested that one line is a-ok if you find a way to credit the singer. Still, that's just one line, not one line every other paragraph. Yes, obtaining permission is possible, but it would postpone the launch way into 2026. So, I guess I'll have to reduce the quoting to a minimum, using paraphrasing where possible. It's telling, rather than showing, but it's safe.
I'm looking forward to getting my manuscript back from the editor in a couple of weeks. Meanwhile, there are quite a few important issues that need to be addressed. If anything, I need to decide on the title before I even start arranging the cover design. Clear or clever? I guess that's will be the subject of my next update.
Have a great day and a great week,
Leonard.