Wordsworth's Open Letter Supporting Copyright Reform

In 1838, William Wordsworth penned a powerful letter to Serjeant Talfourd, MP, voicing his staunch support for a bill aimed at reforming copyright law. Faced with significant opposition from printers and publishers, Wordsworth declined to petition Parliament, instead choosing to publicly declare his belief in authors' inherent right to perpetual ownership of their works—a right far exceeding the bill's proposed term. He argued this right stemmed from common law and criticized opponents for hiding behind existing statutes, avoiding a defense of this fundamental right. The letter also touches upon his concerns for literary giants like Coleridge, Scott, and Southey, expressing his deep respect and gratitude for Talfourd's efforts.