Writer's Block (or lack there of)

[jfett85]

Ok, I wasn't exactly sure which topic to put this under but I think this one works. Anyways...

I'm am amateur writer trying to make it into publication. I'm working on what I think is a really good story line and I'm keeping my fingers crossed that it could be my break. Here's when my conscience comes in to play. One of the main characters is based a ton on my girlfriend and she has a relationship in the story that mirrors our relationship a lot. I mean, it's always easiet to write about what you know so it just kinda happened. There are some definite differences but a lot is extrememly similar. Do you guys think that she would be offended or embarrased or anything if this were to go into print? I don't think anyone but the two of us would know the reality behind it but I'm still a little leary about it. Especially because the relationship in the story goes a lot further than ours is. We've been together about 10 months now so the relationship is solid, but the story takes years and the people end up married and stuff. I'm planning on letting her be one of the first to read the finished copy so maybe that will help. I would hate to throw away this career oppurtunity but hurting her would be worse. Just wondering what y'all think. Thanks!

jfett

[sfalexi]

Best thing to do is have her read over the story, and give you verbal (at LEAST. Preferrably written) consent to publish that story. Then you can avoid all complications.

Alexi

[IceQueen]

go for it, if she is upset, say it's not about you two and you didn't even realize the similarity

[sfalexi]

go for it, if she is upset, say it's not about you two and you didn't even realize the similarity

Sigh. C'mon now! If you KNOW it's based off of your relationship then get consent to do it. That's what all the professional author's do and it's not only the RIGHT thing to do, it'll avoid future complications should she find out about this and if you find out later that "Wow. She really didn't like me doing that". It could mean bye bye girlfriend, and, if she really pushes the issue, the entire publication (should it be published) being pulled from the shelves through a court order.

Alexi

[sfalexi]

Not to mention any harrassment that might come from family members and friends of hers if she doesn't like and tells them what you did.

[hallanole]

tell her the truth. Even something like "you inspired this character. there is so much of you that I like that I had to incorperate it into this girl* That would make me feel special