Saturday, January 5, 2013

Working with an Editor: The Journey

Any journey requires some measure of stamina, a great deal of endurance, a good sense of humor, and most of all, the willingness to see it through. The right tools are also needed for completing a successful journey, and when it comes to writing, a writer needs a vast imagination, the necessary writing accoutrements, and of course, an editor. 

I began working with an editor last spring, and though I knew one was necessary, I wasn't sure how much I could really learn from working with one so closely. After the complimentary sample edit on the first few chapters of my book, I realized I could learn a great deal. It wasn't just making sure all of the commas and quotations marks were in the correct places, or creating better flow throughout the story. It was about learning how to use my own writing voice and style, more effectively. 

The need for an editor does not apply to only self-published authors or only to traditionally published authors. An author with a desire to see their work in print, or to be read by the world, must have an editor. Not should have, but must have. Authors become attached to their characters and their stories, so it's not always easy to step back and objectively read through a draft. I've tried, and trust me, it doesn't work. 

Beta readers and critique partners are wonderful, but they don't compare with what a good editor can do for you and your book. I've learned many lessons in the last months, and I know there are many more to come. I'll be sharing some of my adventures and writing mishaps, and how working with an editor has helped, and continues to help me, become a better writer. Writing is a journey which never ends, but the rewards are immeasurable.

Do you work with an editor? What has been your experience?  




Disclaimer: My editor does not edit my blog posts, and I take full responsibility for any errors. I'm certain there are a few considering I write most of these posts after my chocolate buzz has worn off.
 
Free Stock Image: Track. Image: 218586
© Photographer: Ichtor | Agency: Dreamstime.com

4 comments:

  1. I've never been able to find an editor but I've wanted to work with one. Love your blogsite. The images are great!

    ReplyDelete
  2. Thanks for stopping by Sheri!
    It wasn't easy for me to find one either, since meshing personalities is important, but thankfully she found me. :) Now that I have one, I can't imagine not working with her.

    ReplyDelete
  3. What a great post:-) I agree 100% with you that any author with a desire to see their work in print NEEDS an editor. I learned that the hard way when I released my first book and am now working with an editor--who I really enjoy working with because I feel like she really understands my characters and what I want for them. Finding the right editor is a hard journey but totally worth it once you find them!

    ReplyDelete
  4. I feel the same way Kimberly. My editor becomes just as invested in the characters and story as I do!

    ReplyDelete

This is a happy place for book lovers. Please keep all comments kind and clean. All unhappy comments will be removed. Thank you!