Creative Vision vs. Practical Execution: Writers and Editors #editing #editor #writers #authors

The process began when I received my manuscript back from my editor this past weekend. The Children of the Light series was put on hold after my husband died, and my publisher was kind enough to understand my foggy brain. It has been quite some time since I've read it because I didn't want to add anything else to the story to make the editing and publishing timeline longer after I regained clarity.  Now that it is back in my hands, it is time to put in the finishing touches. There will not be any major changes so I can go forward pretty much relaxed. 

Editors and writers can sometimes have an adversarial relationship. It's normal. Most writers I know have a special relationship with their writing. It's like giving birth to a child. Sort of. Not really but I can't think of a better metaphor.  I've listed a few things I do to refresh myself and keep me focused. 

The Pause

1. I've taken a few days to clear my mind before diving back into the manuscript. I've been working on book two, so I need to clear the cobwebs and get a fresh perspective. 
2. I want to make sure that I have a clear head so I can read my editor's comments and understand her intentions. 
3. I also like the pause because it gives me time to reflect since the last time I saw the manuscript. So much in my life has changed. Including myself. 
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Openminded 

1. I will avoid being defensive and I will keep an open mind about my editor's perspective. This is the hardest part of a writer's journey, but it is necessary and keeps me grounded. 

Editing in Rounds 

1. Editing in rounds is an interesting concept. One I haven't tried before because generally speaking, my stories come from my mind who shows them to me in movies and I just write them down. A round is interesting because you focus on different aspects of your manuscript at a time. For example, first round character development, second round world building, another pacing. 

Use Checklists For:

1. World building. Names and places have to be continuous throughout all manuscripts. 
2. Character personalities are also deserving of a checklist. 
3. Structural changes need to be added as well. 

Leverage Tools

1. I use Grammarly to help me with grammar. I write fast to get the ideas out of my head. Grammarly helps me on a second reading to look for grammatical errors.  
2. I do not use AI to write my stories. I have used AI for graphic design. With all the changes there will be temptations to try out AI. I'm not there yet. 

Other Tips

1. Use a beta reader. 
2. Ask for clarification if any comments are unclear.
3.  Preserve my voice.
4. While editors offer invaluable advice, I have to ensure the final manuscript still feels authentically mine.
5.  I work in chucks to avoid burnout. 

Editing is daunting, but with a systematic approach, it is incredibly rewarding.  ​Plus, it gets you that much closer to publication.