>I created the work, I'm free to do with it as I please.
Under the current law: NO!
That is just a dream from the people that are pro-IP -- they know, that is a dream, but they want you to dream it.
If you are working for a company and have an idea, the company gets the patent and you get (if you are lucky) a fixed amount (~$500 is a typical amount in my country) and the patent belongs to the company -- you don't even have the right to use the stuff for yourself.
IP means, in its conclusion, that the creators are disowned and the "owners" own your ideas. You created it, you are busted!