It is not illegal, just ill advised if it is substantial work. The problem is that your definition of substantial will likely be at odds with the landlord's. You have to use good judgment and not assume too much, respecting the owner of the property's need to maintain value.
If you are reasonably competent, communicate to the owner what you propose to do and don't be disappointed if he declines. After all, it is his property.In my experience, my landlords have been very happy with the little things I did without permission and the bigger things I made deals with them on. As a guideline, keep in mind their interests and communicate.
I cant really gove you an answer,but what I can give you is a way to a solution, that is you have to find the anglde that you relate to or peaks your interest. A good paper is one that people get drawn into because it reaches them ln some way.As for me WW11 to me, I think of the holocaust and the effect it had on the survivors, their families and those who stood by and did nothing until it was too late.