Mr. Anthony,
I would like to make a formal request of you on a matter that the subject of this correspondence itself declares I need not even do. Parody is a protected form of free speech, but I respect your work too much to take your permission as being given solely because the law says you have no recourse against me if I were to do this without your blessing.
I have read many of your books over the years since I was in middle school and your Xanth novels never fail to bring me at least five (and three quarters) good laughs straight from the gut alongside the many pun-induced groans. This request is not, however, about Xanth.
I work in a pharmacy and in the middle of my shift today I was struck with a rather strange thought that simply refused to leave my head. It has managed to worm its way so deep that there are only two ways to get it out; I must either write the story, or be denied permission by a man I have come to respect and admire.
Simply and succinctly put; I wish to write a nonprofit work of fanfiction that mixes your Incarnations of Immortality series with the world of the latest My Little Pony cartoon. You would receive full credit as having inspired however many stories I end up writing, and it may even end up introducing some people to your works that may have strayed away due to your association with incessant puns.
A response would be appreciated, but take as long as you like to think about it. I will not post anything without your permission.
A humble fan
Voldine (real name redacted)
Thank you for your note. We have printed it for Piers Anthony and he gave us the following answer for you:
I understand there is all sorts of fan fiction out there, done without my knowledge, let alone permission. As long as it is obvious parody, go ahead.
Piers Anthony
www.HiPiers.com
