Legal Definitions - literary

The term literary refers to anything connected with written works, especially those considered to have artistic or intellectual value, such as novels, poetry, plays, or essays. It describes the characteristics, creation, or study of such works.

Here are some examples illustrating the application of the term:

• Example 1: Copyright Infringement

  A film production company faces a lawsuit alleging that their new movie's screenplay unlawfully copied significant plot elements and character developments from a critically acclaimed novel. The plaintiff argues that the film infringes upon the novel's protected literary content.

  Explanation: In this scenario, the term "literary" refers to the novel itself, which is a written work protected by copyright law. The lawsuit centers on the unauthorized use of the novel's unique creative expression and narrative structure.

• Example 2: Estate Planning for an Author

  A renowned historian, in their will, specifies that all their unpublished manuscripts, research notes, and personal correspondence, which collectively represent a significant body of literary work, should be bequeathed to a university library for preservation and scholarly access.

  Explanation: Here, "literary" describes the historian's written output—manuscripts, notes, and letters—which are considered valuable intellectual property and creative assets. The will dictates the disposition of these written materials after the author's death.

• Example 3: Publishing Contract

  An author signs a contract with a publishing house outlining the terms for the publication, distribution, and royalties of their upcoming collection of short stories. The agreement details the rights and responsibilities concerning this new literary work.

  Explanation: The contract specifically pertains to the author's collection of short stories, which is a "literary" work. The legal agreement governs how this written creation will be produced, marketed, and sold, and how the author will be compensated for it.