Misattributed quotes are a widespread problem, especially on social media, where they often go viral without proper credit. This deprives original authors of recognition and spreads misinformation. Additionally, there’s no easy way for quote enthusiasts to directly express appreciation to the authors they admire, missing an opportunity to foster deeper connections between creators and their audience.

How It Could Work

One way to address this could be an app that lets users input a quote (via text or voice) and identifies the most likely author using a verified database. Once the author is identified, the app could generate an optional thank-you tweet (or other social media post) acknowledging their work, with links to their books or website. The focus would be on accuracy, ease of use, and light social engagement.

• For users: Accurate attributions and a way to engage with authors they admire.
• For authors: Increased recognition and potential new followers or readers.
• For the app: Monetization could come from premium features, affiliate book sales, or sponsored content.

Execution and Expansion

A simple MVP might start with a basic quote database (limited to well-known authors) and a straightforward interface for input and attribution. The thank-you tweet feature could be opt-in, allowing users to edit the message before posting. Over time, the database could expand through crowdsourcing or partnerships with quote repositories, and features like author bios or book recommendations could be added.

Existing tools like Goodreads or BrainyQuote focus on quote discovery without social engagement, while platforms like Quoteboard prioritize personal collections. This idea combines attribution accuracy with a unique way to connect users and authors, filling a gap in the current landscape.