Let's say that I fork a version of gcc. I think we all agree this is allowed under the GPL, and, indeed has been done in the past. I make significant changes.
Now, I need a manual for my new compiler fork. I naturally look to the GNU's GCC manual. However, there are two problems I see in particular: (a) The FSF's Front-Cover Text is: A GNU Manual (b) The FSF's Back-Cover Text is: You have freedom to copy and modify this GNU Manual, like GNU software. Copies published by the Free Software Foundation raise funds for GNU development. I see this as a problem because my new manual has to include false statements on the covers. It isn't a GNU manual anymore, and the FSF certainly doesn't publish copies. Putting "A GNU Manual" on the cover would, I think, be a violation of Title 15, Sec. 1125(a). So, as a consequence, I can not distribute my manual at all. I'm not sure I can modify GNU manuals _at all_ with those front and back cover texts, because the moment I do, those texts are no longer true.
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