Can anyone tell me what the copyrights are on Tolkien's language? I am writing a book in which I use Tolkien's languages, not outright, but only in names of characters and places. Will I need to have copyright approval at all, or can I use them freely? Can I slightly change each name, or leave them the same? Some clarification would be appreciated, thanks.
-Thorondor
The question of copyright when it comes to constructed languages is still pretty murky. That said, if you're planning to use Tolkien's in a book from which you're hoping to make money, you're sailing into treacherous waters. The Estate isn't likely to grant approval outright, and if they catch wind after the fact, they could be swift to litigate.
It's also a derivative and worn-out choice, if I can be frank. I can't count the number of sighs I've let fly reading about mithril or Eldar in yet another fantasy world. Why not create your own distinctive names? If that's not your cup of tea, there are plenty of conlangers who would leap at the chance to work with you in a fresh and original setting.
Right, I can understand why they wouldn't be happy about that. I'm not even sure I want to publish this book if I ever do finish it, but if I do, I'd definitely have to look further into this issue.
That makes sense-- I can see why people would want to copy from Tolkien's work; I want to myself often, and it's hard not to. I must say, though, that I don't intend to use any names that are in Tolkien's writings, like 'Eldar' or 'Mithril', merely names and places I would translate into Quenya. For an example, the land of the evil guy in my story is called Sunderland in English, but the Elves would call it 'Narcanor'-- 'Sundered land'. I don't think 'Narcanor' is used anywhere in Tolkien's, or anyone else that I know of's, writing. I'm hoping to avoid copying too much from Tolkien, even though he is a huge influence. Hopefully that makes things a little clearer.
I’d still encourage you to develop your own names rather than co-opt Tolkien’s languages for a race of Elves he didn’t intend them for, but I suppose it’s just a matter of taste, especially if the book is for personal enjoyment.
(“Sundered Land” would more likely use a RAK or SKAT derivative in Quenya.)
All right. Thank you for your help and advice! Namarie, Roandil!
(I'll make a note of that, thanks. (:)