You are definitely right in the sense that weirder things have happened, I won't argue with that.
I think, perhaps, I should reinforce to the other folks reading that we are debating important but also rather nuanced points of copyright. Not only that, but we're debating *debated* points of copyright.
The important things, I would estimate:
- If you can afford it, register your copyright
- In lieu of that, *I* would suggest figuring out a way to self-publish it. In my world-view, the web counts. Make sure archive.org looks at it. It's hard to fool archive.org into thinking your work existed in 2007 when it really didn't
- *I* don't like the "poor man's" option, but I'm clearly in the minority of those who think it works (even with preponderance of evidence in civil trials being the standard, I can easily see a clever attorney pointing out that there's no way one can be in any way certain the contents of said postmarked envelope were there when it was postmarked, etc). Do your research, see if it sits well with you after that.
- Aggressively pursue those you find who are using your works without permission
- Obey Wheaton's Law
And, of course, realize that IANAL, and if you really find yourself getting seriously ripped off, consult a legal professional.
/but I saw some guy play one on TV once
//also, more than my fair share of exposure to legal-y stuff
///"legal-y" *is too* professional lingo