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

[lillbet.livejournal.com]

I've read that, thanks. And it's still "alleged" since no one's seen proof and one interviewer asked him where the money goes and he had no response- another issue altogether. I don't think it's the same thing. Emerson's not selling someone else's content repackaged for his profit- he's selling space to discuss the content.

Vander Ark is selling Rowling's ideas under his aegis. It's not authorized. I'd have to read more about it, but I think the argument that this is all fine because Rowling hasn't put her encyclopedia out in a timely fashion is specious at best. :P