works that can be copyrighted in the us must meet the following criteria: - be the EXPRESSION of an idea (ideas can't be copyrighted) - be ORIGINAL (be accomplished by the author) - be CREATIVE (involve at least a modicum of intellectual activity by the author -- an emotive grunt, even by an author, is not copyrightable) - be FIXED (be in some form that permits it to be reproduced) works do NOT have to be good, unique, or novel (new) -- or have any economic value. since 1978, copyrightable works are covered by copyright from the moment of production, even if there is no copyright notice and even if the work is not registered with the copyright office. (however, one cannot pursue copyright infringement without registration and notice.) e-mail, websites, etc., whether fortunately or unfortunately, generally meet these criteria. sandra braman