Re: Using proprietary graphics in a free program

[Rjack]

Tord Romstad wrote:
> Hi all,
>
> I am Tord Romstad, author of Glaurung, one of the strongest GPLed
>  chess programs. Recently, I ported my program to the Apple 
> iPhone.  A couple of days ago, I was contacted by someone who 
> wants to make a commercial chess program based on my program.  He
>  understands that his derived program must also be available 
> under the GPL, and intends to publish all changes he makes in my 
> code, so everything is OK so far.
>
> The problem is that he plans to hire a professional graphics 
> designer to draw the piece images and some other graphics, and to
>  keep these graphical image files proprietary.  He asks me 
> whether the GPL allows this, and I honestly don't know myself. 
> Does anyone here know more about this?
>
> Tord

The GPL is a very powerful license. Once you release your program
code under the GPL, not only does The Free Software Foundation own
the licensing rights to derivative works but also controls your
wife, the kids, your dog and the family estate. So powerful is its
grip,v only the witch doctor from The Republic of Namibia who
authorized the GPL's spell can release your life from living Hell.

Beware the GPL. Beware the mighty GPL.