Lois & Clark Forums Forums Fan Fiction Fanfic Related What are the rules on the use of strong language in a fanfic?

I tried looking through the FAQ but came away still confused. I think I understand the PG-13 nature restrictions with respect to sexual situations, but what are the rules relating to simple cursing?

Is there an equivalent of George Carlin's 7 words you can't say on TV?

In case it's not obvious, this question applies to a non-nfic story.

Bob

Well, you can't use f**k. I had wanted it at the end of a fic I wrote but the answer was "no" Back when I was GEing, I would have flagged s**t in a fic, although I don't recall that I was ever given a list with specific words - just a general rule not to use obscenities.

c.

Damn and hell are both okay - they're canon anyway . Jonathan said damn in the pilot and I know I heard Lois say it once [I think :p ] and a hell or two [besides Perry's hells bells].

I think Carol's right on sh** and definitely on f***.

I'm sure Labby will be along to give a definitive answer . Or someone will point to a previous thread... Or something =D.

Carol

Bob,here's a discussion in a previous thread:
http://www.lcficmbs.com/ubb/ultimatebb.php?ubb=get_topic;f=5;t=002294#000022

and this:
http://www.lcficmbs.com/ubb/ultimatebb.php?ubb=get_topic;f=5;t=000511#000007

hope this helps

Artemis

Oy - I had managed to forget that thread even existed.

Thanks, Artemis :p .



But there is some good stuff in there about what words are acceptable and which ones aren't.

Thanks everyone!

Between your replies and the information in those threads I have all I needed.

Bob