The word of the week is “plagiarism.”  The definition of plagiarism is using the thoughts or words of another author without permission to do so, or without acknowledging who the work belongs to.

 

The word is up front in our news this past week due to the resignation of the president of Harvard University.  The last few days every time I listen to the news this subject comes up.  As I see it, it seems quite clear that the above is truly the meaning of the word. Over the years I have heard individuals who have taken words and used them as their own.  I have never heard of anyone being prosecuted for doing this, but I guess with a little research I might come up with someone.

 

Now I want to share my involvement with this act.  When I was about five years into the West Virginia Italian Heritage Festival, I got a call from friend and author, Phyllis Moore.  She advised me that she was reading a news release I had just released, and she was sure that I had committed plagiarism.  I replied that I had only used what the individual had supplied me as a bio and that I had lifted out parts when preparing a release.

 

No matter how hard I tried to explain my actions, Phyllis led me to believe I was guilty.  I asked her to help me rectify this.  I was scared and was sure I might end up in jail.  So, I followed her advice and contacted the honoree.  They agreed that I would release a statement giving the proper individual credit for the statements. Then I gave them an ad in the souvenir book promoting their book.  This seemed to end my action.

 

That was many years ago, but every time I start to write I remind myself to be careful with the words I use.  If I use a joke, a song, a poem or a saying anyone has made famous I try to give them credit for it.

 

I credit my teacher, Jane Maxwel, for instilling in me my love of the written word.  Perhaps she told me about plagiarism, but it did not stick with me.  I was so excited about writing and journalism.

 

I have no idea what the punishment for plagiarism is but I am glad I did not have a fine or, worse yet, time in jail. I am sure ignorance of the law would not be an excuse.

 

To all of you “wannabe” journalists, be aware of this crime as you pursue your career.

 

Stay healthy, enjoy the New Year and until next week, “Now You Have Heard It Through The Grapevine.”