Editing: As Necessary as Breathing
I know writers who are serious about every aspect of their work except editing. I have no idea why. Perhaps a writer who does not edit can tell me.
Perhaps it has something to do with ego. The writer feels his or her work is so good it does not require a rewrite. Or maybe the writer fears that editing will interfere with the creative process.
Simply stated, writers who do not edit their work and who do enlist the aid of someone who will help them edit their work, will never improve as writers. In addition, their material, whether published or not, will not be as good as it might be. It may not sell well or it may be criticized negatively; something that will also hamper sales. Even J.K. Rowling admits that her books needed to be edited more thoroughly and that the push to satisfy the hype produced books that were less than what she had envisioned. They are too long, there are unresolved issues, and the prose is cumbersome in spots. I agree and so do others. (See the commentary at Writing101.com.)
Editors do not search for missing periods. That is the job of a proofreader. Editors tell a writer when things don't make sense plus they help with character development and structure. They keep writers focused and point out plot issues or weak spots. Finally, editors help writers say what they mean to say.
Good editors never rewrite anything themselves. They point out the trouble spots and leave the rewrites to the author. This ensures that the article or manuscript retains the writer's voice and does not pick up the editor's point of view. Good editors are mindful of what sells but do not sacrifice a work on the altar of merchandizing.
Where does one find a good editor? Unless you have an exceptional relationship with someone who is willing to be brutally honest, it is best not to use your spouse, child, or best friend as an editor. Ask other writers, librarians, or instructors for referrals.
In summary, all writers need editing so do yourself a favor and find one. You won't regret it.
Perhaps it has something to do with ego. The writer feels his or her work is so good it does not require a rewrite. Or maybe the writer fears that editing will interfere with the creative process.
Simply stated, writers who do not edit their work and who do enlist the aid of someone who will help them edit their work, will never improve as writers. In addition, their material, whether published or not, will not be as good as it might be. It may not sell well or it may be criticized negatively; something that will also hamper sales. Even J.K. Rowling admits that her books needed to be edited more thoroughly and that the push to satisfy the hype produced books that were less than what she had envisioned. They are too long, there are unresolved issues, and the prose is cumbersome in spots. I agree and so do others. (See the commentary at Writing101.com.)
Editors do not search for missing periods. That is the job of a proofreader. Editors tell a writer when things don't make sense plus they help with character development and structure. They keep writers focused and point out plot issues or weak spots. Finally, editors help writers say what they mean to say.
Good editors never rewrite anything themselves. They point out the trouble spots and leave the rewrites to the author. This ensures that the article or manuscript retains the writer's voice and does not pick up the editor's point of view. Good editors are mindful of what sells but do not sacrifice a work on the altar of merchandizing.
Where does one find a good editor? Unless you have an exceptional relationship with someone who is willing to be brutally honest, it is best not to use your spouse, child, or best friend as an editor. Ask other writers, librarians, or instructors for referrals.
In summary, all writers need editing so do yourself a favor and find one. You won't regret it.
Posted by Linda Mickey at 7/8/2011 7:45 AM 
Categories: Writing How To
Tags: j k rowling writing101.com writing advice editing and proofreading what makes a good editor rewrites
Categories: Writing How To
Tags: j k rowling writing101.com writing advice editing and proofreading what makes a good editor rewrites
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