Attribution

Idea Tailor · Jul 2, 2009

Please forgive me if this question belongs elsewhere. I'm still a bit boggled by trying to learn my way around all the great info on the board(s).

I'm wondering where to find the rules for attribution, specifically, regarding a well-known quote. For example, is it proper dialog to write, "Let's just say, 'two roads diverged in a yellow wood,' and I don't know which one I'm on."? Or must I indicate that the character is quoting Frost?

Thanks!

Mumut · Jul 2, 2009

Is this non-fiction? I don't in fiction.

mlazzer · Jul 3, 2009

I don't think you need to do that, but I'm not a 100% sure. But for example, if you have seen Quentin Tarantino's movie Death Proof, one of the characters quotes Frost as well (the Butterfly radio joke), but it's never mentioned in the film it is from Robert Frost: "The woods are lovely, dark, and deep. And I have promises to keep. Miles to go before I sleep."

RJK · Jul 3, 2009

JMHO go with what you have - let the publisher's editors fix it when the time comes.

Idea Tailor · Jul 4, 2009

I am referring to fiction. It's so much less awkward not to attribute. I would assume Shakespeare is in the common lingo and (US anyway) Frost would be, but I'm not sure where to find "rules" on this. I agree it would not be a difference-maker in getting ms accepted and should be able to get guidance afterward (whenever that may be

Thanks to all for the suggestions.

Libbie · Jul 4, 2009

I've never seen quotes attributed in fiction when it was used as part of dialogue or narrative. I've only ever seen attribution when a quote opens a chapter as a little heading (as with all the chapters in Watership Down.)

Attribution

Idea Tailor

Mumut

Well begun is half done...

mlazzer

New kid, be gentle

RJK

Sheriff Bullwinkle the Poet says:

Idea Tailor

Libbie

Worst song played on ugliest guitar