The Unauthorized Harry Potter Lexicon Case: Could someone explain this to me, please?

[lillbet]

They mentioned the Harry Potter Lexicon case this morning on Today, but I didn't have time to wait for the segment. Basically, it sounds like some fan!guy (who publicized fake spoilers, by the way) wants to publish his version of a lexicon and Rowling has filed a restraining order and is upset because she was planning to publish an encyclopedia based on the books.

I have to say, after reading a bit about this online, that I am absolutely baffled at Vander Ark's audacity. He claims to love the series, and respect the author according to the open letter on his site, yet he is pretty much dicking Rowling out of her right to publish the definitive work based on her own ideas. And since it's unauthorized (ie being done without Rowling's approval), that should pretty much put the kibosh on it, I'd think.

Am I missing something?

If so, could someone explain it to me, using nice language and small words that won't hurt my brain?

Thank you. :)

Comments

[leenielou.livejournal.com]

Apparently there's some kind of clause that says that because it's not affecting the series in any way and is instead a reference, a how-to, then it's legal.

But, yeah. It's kinda...hmm. Did you hear JKR's latest comments about it? They were all kinds of awesome.

[taperoo2k.livejournal.com]

I was quite livid about this until the full facts came out.
All he's doing is publishing the Lexicon with no academic stuff at all. So i now think Rowling has the moral right to sue his backside off. I'd rather wait for Rowling's book on the Harry Potter world, as it'll be the definitive version.

It's a shame though, the lexicon is a very good resource for Harry Potter facts when in a pinch.

[lillbet.livejournal.com]

You mean this? “If RDR’s position is accepted, it will undoubtedly have a significant, negative impact on the freedoms enjoyed by genuine fans on the internet,” she said.

“Authors everywhere will be forced to protect their creations much more rigorously, which could mean denying well-meaning fans permission to pursue legitimate creative activities.”

She added: “I find it devastating to contemplate the possibility of such a severe alteration of author-fan relations.”