A work is generally eligible for copyright protection if it is: (1) original; (2) a work of authorship (de minimus words and short phrases as well as abstract ideas may not qualify); and (3) fixed in a tangible medium of expression (copyright protection would not extend to such things as unrecorded performances).  Copyrightable works under federal law include such things as: (1) literary works; (2) musical works including associated words; (3) dramatic works including associated music; (4) pantomimes and choreographic works; (5) pictorial, graphic and sculptural works; (6) motion pictures and other audiovisual works; (7) sound recordings; and (8) architectural works.  This list of copyrightable works is by way of example rather than exclusive under federal law.