Auto/Bio Mix: Permissions, Ethics, Choices

Navigating the complex terrain of life writing, particularly when considering whether can i have autobiography and biography in my book, necessitates a careful consideration of various legal and ethical dimensions. The Chicago Manual of Style, a comprehensive guide for authors and publishers, offers indispensable advice on permissions for quoted material. Furthermore, the American Society of Journalists and Authors (ASJA) provides ethical guidelines that emphasize the importance of truthfulness and fairness in biographical and autobiographical accounts. Decisions regarding inclusion often hinge on the degree of collaboration with the subject, requiring writers to meticulously evaluate literary rights, especially when dealing with sensitive or private information. Exploring the nuances of personal narratives within the framework of both self-representation and external portrayal demands a robust understanding of the choices writers face when weaving together autobiographical and biographical elements.

Life writing, a broad genre encompassing autobiography, biography, memoir, and their various hybrid forms, presents unique ethical and legal challenges. Authors venturing into this territory must navigate a complex landscape where personal narratives intersect with the rights and reputations of real individuals. The stakes are high, demanding a keen awareness of the potential pitfalls and responsibilities involved.

Defining Life Writing

Life writing, at its core, seeks to capture and convey the essence of a life, or aspects thereof. Autobiography centers on the author’s own journey, while biography explores the life of another. Memoir zooms in on specific periods or themes, offering a subjective reflection on the past.

The blending of these forms gives rise to hybrid narratives, blurring the lines between personal experience and external observation. Regardless of the chosen form, life writing distinguishes itself through its commitment to real-life subjects and events, setting it apart from purely fictional storytelling.

The Imperative of Ethical and Legal Awareness

Why is ethical and legal awareness so crucial for life writers? Because these narratives wield immense power. They shape perceptions, influence reputations, and leave lasting legacies. A careless or malicious portrayal can inflict irreparable harm, causing emotional distress, professional damage, or even legal repercussions.

Authors must recognize that they are not simply telling a story; they are crafting a narrative that will have real-world consequences for themselves and others. Ignorance of the law is no excuse, and ethical lapses can erode trust in the author and the genre as a whole.

Navigating the Ethical and Legal Maze

The journey through life writing requires a roadmap that highlights the key areas of concern.
We must consider a robust ethical framework. The ethical framework guides decision-making and promotes responsible storytelling. This involves grappling with questions of truthfulness, privacy, and respect for the deceased. Authors must strive for accuracy while acknowledging the inherent subjectivity of memory and interpretation.

Protecting the privacy of living individuals is paramount, and handling sensitive information about those who have passed requires careful consideration of their legacy and the impact on their descendants. The journey also includes an understanding of legal boundaries. This includes copyright laws, permissions, and the ever-present threat of defamation.

Finally, we have to look at research integrity. Thorough fact-checking, responsible reporting, and proper attribution are essential for maintaining credibility and avoiding legal pitfalls.

Core Concepts: Defining Life Writing and its Ethical Landscape

Life writing, a broad genre encompassing autobiography, biography, memoir, and their various hybrid forms, presents unique ethical and legal challenges. Authors venturing into this territory must navigate a complex landscape where personal narratives intersect with the rights and reputations of real individuals. The stakes are high, demanding a keen understanding of the different forms of life writing and the intricate ethical considerations that govern them.

Distinguishing the Forms of Life Writing

Understanding the nuances of each life writing form is crucial for approaching the craft responsibly. Each form carries its own set of expectations and ethical implications.

Autobiography: The Self-Authored Life

Autobiography centers on the author’s own life story. The narrative unfolds from their personal perspective, offering an intimate glimpse into their experiences, thoughts, and evolution. While offering unique insights, autobiographies are inherently subjective, relying heavily on memory and interpretation. Authors must be aware of potential biases and strive for honesty, even when confronting uncomfortable truths.

Biography: Narrating Another’s Journey

Biography delves into the life of another individual. It requires meticulous research, careful analysis, and a commitment to portraying the subject fairly and accurately. Biographers often rely on primary and secondary sources, piecing together a comprehensive narrative from diverse perspectives. The challenge lies in presenting a balanced account, acknowledging both achievements and flaws, while respecting the subject’s privacy and legacy.

Memoir: Focused Reflections

Memoir narrows its focus to specific events, themes, or periods in the author’s life. Unlike autobiography, which aims for a comprehensive overview, memoir hones in on particular aspects of experience, exploring their significance and impact. Memoirs often delve into deeply personal and emotional territory, demanding sensitivity and self-reflection. The ethical considerations revolve around representing one’s experiences truthfully and avoiding the exploitation of others involved.

Hybrid Memoir/Biography: Blending Perspectives

The boundaries between these forms are increasingly blurred. Hybrid works combine elements of memoir and biography, weaving personal experiences with the stories of others. This approach allows for nuanced explorations of relationships, shared histories, and the interplay between individual lives. Authors employing this hybrid form must navigate the ethical considerations of both memoir and biography, balancing personal reflection with responsible representation of others.

The Ethical Framework: Navigating Moral Obligations

At the heart of life writing lies a complex ethical framework, demanding careful consideration of truthfulness, privacy, and respect for legacies. Authors must grapple with these considerations at every stage of the writing process.

Balancing Truthfulness and Interpretation

The pursuit of truth is paramount in life writing, yet it is often intertwined with subjective interpretation. Memories can be fallible, perspectives can be biased, and narratives can be shaped by personal agendas. Authors must strive for accuracy in their presentation of facts, while acknowledging the inherent limitations of human perception. This requires transparency about sources, a willingness to consider alternative viewpoints, and a commitment to presenting a balanced account.

Addressing Privacy Concerns

Life writing inevitably involves the disclosure of personal information, both about the author and about others. Protecting the privacy of living individuals is a fundamental ethical obligation. Authors must carefully consider the potential impact of their writing on the lives of those they portray, weighing the public interest against the right to privacy. Obtaining informed consent is crucial, especially when dealing with sensitive or potentially damaging information.

Respecting the Legacy of Deceased Individuals

While the deceased no longer have a legal right to privacy, authors still have an ethical responsibility to treat their subjects with respect and sensitivity. This involves avoiding gratuitous sensationalism, refraining from spreading misinformation, and striving to portray the deceased fairly and accurately. Authors should be mindful of the potential impact of their work on the reputation and memory of the deceased.

Considerations for Descendants and Heirs

The stories we tell about individuals often reverberate through generations, affecting the lives of their descendants and heirs. Authors must be aware of the potential emotional and psychological impact of their work on family members. Engaging with descendants, when possible, can provide valuable insights and perspectives, as well as mitigate potential conflicts. Sensitivity, empathy, and a willingness to listen are essential when navigating these complex relationships.

Navigating Legal Boundaries: Copyright, Permissions, and Defamation

Life writing ventures into the intricate legal landscape where storytelling meets the stringent rules of copyright, defamation, and rights to privacy. Navigating this terrain effectively is paramount. It ensures the protection of both the author and the subjects involved.

Copyright Law and the Life Writer

Copyright law serves as a cornerstone in safeguarding intellectual property. It dictates how published and unpublished works can be used, adapted, and distributed. Understanding the basics of copyright is crucial for any life writer. It prevents inadvertent infringement on existing materials.

Understanding Copyright Basics

Copyright protection automatically applies to original works of authorship as soon as they are fixed in a tangible medium. This includes literary, dramatic, musical, and certain other intellectual works.

For life writers, this means that pre-existing works like letters, diaries, photographs, and even other published biographies or memoirs may be subject to copyright.

Securing Permissions: A Necessary Step

Using copyrighted material necessitates obtaining permission from the copyright holder. This process involves contacting the owner, requesting permission for specific uses, and potentially negotiating fees. Failure to do so can result in legal repercussions.

The process of obtaining permissions can be time-consuming. It also requires meticulous record-keeping. Begin the clearance process early in the writing project.

For unpublished materials, like personal letters held in private collections, identifying and contacting the copyright holder can be challenging. Persistence and thorough research is key.

Avoiding Defamation: Truth and Responsible Reporting

Defamation, encompassing both libel (written) and slander (spoken), poses a significant legal risk for life writers. Defamation occurs when false statements are made that harm a person’s reputation.

Defining Defamation

To prove defamation, a plaintiff typically must demonstrate that the statement was false, published to a third party, caused harm to their reputation, and made with a requisite level of fault. This level of fault varies depending on whether the subject is a public figure or a private individual.

Public figures, such as politicians and celebrities, must prove "actual malice"—that the statement was made with knowledge of its falsity or with reckless disregard for the truth. Private individuals generally have a lower burden of proof.

Rigorous Fact-Checking: The First Line of Defense

Accurate and thorough fact-checking is paramount in preventing defamation claims. Relying on multiple sources, verifying information through primary documents, and conducting interviews with relevant parties are essential steps.

If discrepancies or conflicting accounts arise, acknowledge those ambiguities in the writing.

Responsible Reporting: Context and Fairness

Presenting information in a fair and balanced manner is crucial. Avoid sensationalizing or exaggerating details to create a more compelling narrative.

Provide context for potentially damaging statements. Offer the subject of the writing an opportunity to respond to accusations.

Truth as an Absolute Defense

In most jurisdictions, truth serves as an absolute defense against defamation claims. However, proving the truth can be complex and costly.

Even if the information is factual, presenting it in a way that creates a false or misleading impression can still lead to legal challenges. Be mindful of the overall tone and framing of the narrative.

Upholding Truthfulness and Attribution

Maintaining accuracy and providing proper attribution are ethical and legal imperatives in life writing. These principles underpin the credibility and integrity of the work.

Ensuring Accuracy

Striving for accuracy involves diligent research, cross-referencing information, and critically evaluating sources. A commitment to truthfulness safeguards against unintentional misrepresentations or factual errors.

Proper Attribution

Attributing sources diligently prevents plagiarism and provides readers with a clear understanding of the foundation upon which the narrative is built. Cite all sources, including direct quotes, paraphrased material, and factual information obtained from external sources.

Adhering to these legal and ethical principles not only protects the author from potential liability. It also enhances the quality and credibility of the life writing project. Ultimately, responsible storytelling builds trust with the reader and contributes to a more informed and nuanced understanding of the lives being depicted.

Understanding Copyright Law and Fair Use in Life Writing

Life writing ventures into the intricate legal landscape where storytelling meets the stringent rules of copyright, defamation, and rights to privacy. Navigating this terrain effectively is paramount. It ensures the protection of both the author and the subjects involved.

Copyright law, in particular, governs the use of existing materials. It’s crucial for authors to understand the duration of copyright, the concept of fair use, and the availability of works in the public domain. This knowledge empowers writers to navigate the legal complexities inherent in life writing. It allows them to craft compelling narratives responsibly.

Duration of Copyright Protection

Copyright protection isn’t indefinite. Understanding its duration is fundamental. In general, for works created after 1978, copyright lasts for the life of the author plus 70 years.

For corporate works (works for hire), the term is typically 95 years from publication or 120 years from creation, whichever expires first. Knowing these timelines helps determine whether a work is still protected or has entered the public domain. This determination significantly impacts your ability to use it freely.

Fair Use: A Balancing Act

Fair use is a legal doctrine that permits the limited use of copyrighted material without permission from the copyright holder. However, it’s not a free pass. Fair use is a fact-specific determination, and its application depends on a careful consideration of four factors:

• The purpose and character of the use: Is it transformative, adding new meaning or insight? Is it for commercial or non-profit educational purposes?

• The nature of the copyrighted work: Is it factual or creative? Published or unpublished?

• The amount and substantiality of the portion used: How much of the original work is being used? Is it the "heart" of the work?

• The effect of the use upon the potential market: Does the use harm the market for the original work?

Applying Fair Use in Life Writing

In life writing, fair use might allow you to quote excerpts from letters, diaries, or other copyrighted works for critical analysis or commentary. For example, analyzing a poet’s unpublished letters to illuminate their creative process may be considered fair use. However, reproducing substantial portions of a biography for commercial gain likely would not.

Authors need to weigh these factors carefully. They must be prepared to justify their use of copyrighted material under the fair use doctrine. Documentation of this analysis is crucial. It helps demonstrate a good-faith effort to comply with copyright law.

Navigating the Public Domain

Works in the public domain are no longer protected by copyright. They can be used freely without permission. This is a treasure trove for life writers. It allows for extensive use of historical documents and materials.

Identifying public domain works requires understanding copyright law and knowing where to look. Works published in the United States before 1926 are generally in the public domain. However, the situation can be complex. Renewals and international copyright laws can affect a work’s status.

Resources for Finding Public Domain Materials

Several resources can help identify public domain works.

• Project Gutenberg offers a vast library of free ebooks.

• HathiTrust Digital Library provides access to digitized books and journals.

• The Internet Archive hosts a variety of digital materials.

These resources make research more efficient. They help authors avoid potential copyright infringement. Always verify the copyright status of any work before using it, even if it appears to be in the public domain. Scrutinizing copyright status will protect you from a potential violation.

Seeking Legal Counsel: Protecting Your Rights and Minimizing Risks

Life writing ventures into the intricate legal landscape where storytelling meets the stringent rules of copyright, defamation, and rights to privacy. Navigating this terrain effectively is paramount. It ensures the protection of both the author and the subjects involved. While thorough research and diligent fact-checking are essential, there are times when the expertise of a legal professional becomes indispensable. Seeking legal counsel isn’t merely an option; it’s a strategic move that can safeguard your work and minimize potential legal liabilities.

Finding a Lawyer Specializing in Copyright/Publishing

Identifying the right legal representation is the first crucial step. Not all lawyers possess the specialized knowledge required to navigate the complexities of copyright and publishing law.

Resources for Identifying Qualified Legal Professionals

State Bar Associations: Most state bar associations offer referral services, allowing you to find lawyers specializing in specific areas of law within your jurisdiction.

Intellectual Property Law Associations: Organizations like the American Intellectual Property Law Association (AIPLA) provide directories of attorneys specializing in intellectual property law, including copyright.

Referrals from Fellow Authors: Networking with other writers and authors can be invaluable. Seek recommendations from those who have successfully navigated the publishing process and have worked with reputable lawyers.

Online Legal Directories: Websites like Avvo and Martindale-Hubbell provide comprehensive profiles of attorneys, including their areas of specialization, experience, and client reviews.

Questions to Ask Potential Lawyers

Before engaging a lawyer, it’s essential to conduct thorough due diligence to ensure they are the right fit for your needs.

What is your experience specifically in copyright and publishing law?

Have you represented authors in similar life writing projects?

What is your approach to risk assessment and mitigation in this context?

What are your fees and billing practices?

Can you provide references from past clients?

Protecting Your Rights as an Author

Legal counsel can provide invaluable assistance in protecting your rights throughout the writing and publishing process.

Understanding and Negotiating Contracts: Lawyers can review publishing contracts to ensure they are fair and equitable, protecting your financial interests and intellectual property rights. They can help negotiate favorable terms regarding royalties, subsidiary rights, and termination clauses.

Copyright Ownership: Legal advice clarifies copyright ownership issues, especially when dealing with collaborative works or derivative materials. It ensures that you retain control over your creative output.

Addressing Infringement Concerns: If you suspect that your work has been infringed upon, a lawyer can advise on the appropriate legal remedies, including cease and desist letters, litigation, and other forms of dispute resolution.

Minimizing Legal Risks Associated with Publication

The publication process carries inherent legal risks that need to be carefully managed.

Manuscript Review for Potential Legal Problems: A lawyer specializing in publishing law can review your manuscript for potential issues such as defamation, invasion of privacy, and copyright infringement. This proactive step can help you identify and address potential liabilities before publication.

Defamation and Libel Claims: Careful review of the manuscript helps ensure that statements made about individuals are accurate and substantiated. It ensures that they are protected by legal defenses such as truth or fair comment. This is paramount in life writing.

Copyright Clearance: Lawyers assist in clearing copyright for any third-party materials used in your work, such as photographs, letters, or excerpts from other publications. It helps to avoid copyright infringement claims.

In conclusion, seeking legal counsel is an investment that can pay dividends in protecting your rights, minimizing risks, and ensuring the successful publication of your life writing project. By engaging a qualified lawyer specializing in copyright and publishing law, you can navigate the legal complexities with confidence and focus on what you do best: telling compelling stories.

Navigating the Publishing Process: Agents, Publishers, and Contracts

Life writing ventures into the intricate legal landscape where storytelling meets the stringent rules of copyright, defamation, and rights to privacy. Navigating this terrain effectively is paramount. It ensures the protection of both the author and the subjects involved. While thorough research and legal counsel are invaluable, understanding the publishing process is the next critical step in bringing your life writing project to fruition. This involves securing representation, choosing the right publisher, and understanding the intricacies of publication contracts.

Securing Representation from Literary Agents

The journey to publication often begins with securing a literary agent. A good agent acts as your advocate. They help navigate the complex world of publishing. They leverage their industry knowledge and connections to secure the best possible deal for your manuscript.

The Benefits of Having a Literary Agent

Literary agents offer several key benefits:

• Industry Expertise: They possess in-depth knowledge of the publishing market.
• Negotiation Skills: They negotiate contracts on your behalf.
• Access to Publishers: They have established relationships with editors at various publishing houses.
• Career Guidance: They provide long-term career advice and support.

How to Find and Approach Literary Agents

Finding the right agent requires research and a targeted approach. Start by:

• Researching Agents: Use online resources like Publisher’s Marketplace or QueryTracker to identify agents who specialize in life writing genres and represent authors with similar backgrounds or themes.
• Attending Writers’ Conferences: Conferences provide opportunities to meet agents face-to-face.
• Networking: Connect with other authors. Ask for recommendations based on their experiences.

When approaching an agent:

• Follow Submission Guidelines: Adhere strictly to the agent’s specified submission requirements.
• Personalize Your Approach: Demonstrate that you’ve researched the agent and understand their interests.

Preparing a Query Letter and Book Proposal

The query letter and book proposal are your initial selling tools. They must be compelling and professional.

• Query Letter: This is a brief, persuasive letter that introduces your book and yourself to the agent. Focus on the unique aspects of your story and its market appeal.
• Book Proposal: This is a detailed document that provides an overview of your book. It includes a chapter outline, sample chapters, and a marketing plan.

Understanding Publishers

Choosing the right publisher is a crucial decision that impacts the reach and success of your book. There are several types of publishers. Each has its unique focus and approach.

Trade Publishers

Trade publishers are commercially driven. They focus on publishing books with broad appeal. They aim for significant sales and visibility in the marketplace.

University Presses

University presses typically publish scholarly works. They also publish regional interest titles with academic merit. Their focus is more on intellectual contribution than on commercial success.

Considerations When Choosing a Publisher

Consider these factors when selecting a publisher:

• Editorial Focus: Does the publisher specialize in life writing or similar genres?
• Marketing and Distribution: What is the publisher’s track record in marketing and distributing similar books?
• Royalties and Advances: What are the financial terms offered by the publisher?
• Editorial Support: What level of editorial support does the publisher provide?

Understanding Publication Contracts

A publication contract is a legally binding agreement. It outlines the terms and conditions of the publishing arrangement between the author and the publisher. It is crucial to understand every clause before signing.

• Royalties: This section specifies the percentage of sales revenue that the author will receive.
• Rights: This section defines the rights granted to the publisher (e.g., print, ebook, audio). It also defines the rights retained by the author.
• Responsibilities: This section outlines the responsibilities of both the author and the publisher. It includes deadlines, marketing obligations, and editorial input.

Negotiation is key. Do not hesitate to seek clarification. It is always advisable to consult with a literary agent or an attorney before signing any contract. They can help you understand the terms and negotiate for the best possible outcome.

Research, Verification, and Responsible Storytelling: Ensuring Accuracy and Ethical Conduct

Navigating the Publishing Process: Agents, Publishers, and Contracts
Life writing ventures into the intricate legal landscape where storytelling meets the stringent rules of copyright, defamation, and rights to privacy. Navigating this terrain effectively is paramount. It ensures the protection of both the author and the subjects involved. While th…

The bedrock of compelling and credible life writing rests upon rigorous research and a steadfast commitment to ethical practices. Accuracy isn’t merely a preference; it’s a moral imperative. It honors the lives being portrayed and builds trust with readers. The process requires meticulous attention to detail. It demands a nuanced understanding of how to gather, verify, and present information responsibly.

Gathering Comprehensive Information

Effective research transcends simple fact-finding; it involves a deep dive into available resources, ensuring a multifaceted perspective. The journey begins with identifying reliable sources and employing strategic methods to unearth pertinent information.

Utilizing Public Records Databases

Public records databases serve as invaluable repositories of verifiable information. They offer insights into vital statistics, property records, court documents, and more. Services like LexisNexis and Accurint provide comprehensive access.

• LexisNexis is a legal research database offering access to extensive legal and news sources.
• Accurint specializes in public records and data for risk management and investigative purposes.

Authors can leverage these platforms to corroborate biographical details, trace historical events, and establish a solid foundation for their narratives. It’s essential to understand the scope and limitations of each database.

Exploring Online Archives

Online archives unlock troves of historical documents, photographs, letters, and other primary source materials. These digital collections offer unparalleled access to firsthand accounts and contextual information. Platforms such as the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) and university digital libraries are invaluable.

NARA provides access to U.S. government records, including military, census, and presidential documents. University digital libraries, such as those at Harvard and Yale, offer digitized collections of manuscripts, rare books, and historical artifacts. Authors can unearth compelling details. They can provide depth and authenticity to their life writing projects.

Leveraging Libraries

Libraries remain essential hubs for research, providing access to a wealth of physical and digital resources. Librarians offer expert guidance, assisting authors in locating relevant materials and navigating complex research queries. Interlibrary loan programs expand access to resources beyond local collections. Local libraries often provide access to genealogical databases. These databases are invaluable for tracing family histories and verifying biographical information.

Protecting Subjects and Sources

Ethical life writing places paramount importance on protecting the rights and privacy of subjects and sources. Authors must adhere to principles of informed consent and confidentiality, ensuring individuals are treated with respect and dignity.

Informed Consent: The Cornerstone of Ethical Storytelling

Informed consent is a fundamental ethical principle. It requires authors to obtain voluntary agreement from individuals before including their stories or personal information in their work. Subjects must be fully aware of how their narratives will be used and have the right to decline participation.

Authors should provide clear and concise explanations of the project’s scope, purpose, and potential impact. Documenting consent through written agreements or recorded interviews establishes a transparent and ethical process. This process is not just a formality; it’s a demonstration of respect and a commitment to ethical storytelling.

Ensuring Awareness and Transparency

Authors must ensure that subjects fully comprehend the implications of sharing their stories. This includes discussing potential risks, benefits, and the level of control they will have over the final narrative. Providing opportunities for review and feedback empowers subjects and promotes collaboration. It fosters a sense of trust. Transparency throughout the process is crucial for maintaining ethical integrity.

Maintaining Confidentiality and Anonymity

Protecting the privacy of sources is paramount, especially when dealing with sensitive or potentially damaging information. Authors should respect requests for anonymity and take steps to conceal identifying details when necessary. Pseudonyms, altered timelines, and composite characters can shield individuals.

Ethical considerations extend beyond legal obligations. Authors have a moral responsibility to safeguard the well-being of their subjects and sources.

Maintaining Integrity and Objectivity

Integrity is the compass guiding ethical life writing. Authors must uphold principles of honesty, accuracy, and transparency in all aspects of their work. Avoiding plagiarism and striving for objectivity are essential for maintaining credibility and trust.

Avoiding Plagiarism: Honoring Intellectual Property

Plagiarism is the act of presenting someone else’s work or ideas as one’s own, without proper attribution. It’s a serious ethical violation with legal consequences. Authors must scrupulously cite all sources, including direct quotations, paraphrased material, and borrowed ideas. Utilizing citation management tools and adhering to established citation styles (e.g., MLA, Chicago) ensures academic integrity.

• Plagiarism undermines the author’s credibility and devalues the original source.
• Proper attribution is not merely a technicality; it’s an acknowledgment of intellectual debt and a demonstration of respect for other creators.

Striving for Objectivity: Acknowledging Bias

Complete objectivity is an elusive ideal, as authors inevitably bring their own perspectives and biases to their work. However, striving for objectivity requires authors to acknowledge their biases and present information fairly, considering multiple viewpoints. Presenting multiple perspectives allows the readers to draw their own conclusions. Critically evaluating sources and separating personal opinions from verifiable facts is crucial.

• Maintaining a critical eye and engaging in self-reflection can help mitigate bias and enhance the credibility of the narrative.

Responsible storytelling involves embracing complexity and acknowledging the inherent subjectivity of human experience. Ethical life writing seeks to illuminate truth, not to impose a predetermined narrative. By adhering to these principles, authors can honor the lives they portray. They contribute to a richer understanding of the human condition.

So, navigating the world of auto/bio mix is definitely a bit of a tightrope walk. The good news is, with careful consideration of permissions, a solid ethical framework, and mindful choices about how much of yourself and others you reveal, you can tell your story, and tell it well. Remember to really think about the question: can i have autobiography and biography in my book? If the answer is yes, proceed thoughtfully, and good luck bringing your unique vision to life!