Editorial Advice To Listen Or Not To Listen
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Writing Speaking -> subcategory Writing.
Editorial Advice: To Listen Or Not To Listen?
Summary
Whether you're navigating traditional publishing or exploring self-publishing avenues, seeking feedback from a good editor?"or even multiple editors?"is crucial. However, deciding when to heed their advice and when to stop making changes can be challenging. Ultimately, the author must find a balance that enhances the work while staying true to their vision.
Article
For any author, whether opting for traditional publishing or self-publishing, feedback from proficient editors is invaluable. Yet, knowing when to implement an editor's suggestions and when to remain steadfast to your original vision is a challenge. This decision often involves striking a balance that maintains the integrity of your work.
How Many Editors Are Enough?
In my experience with Shades of Darkness, Shades of Grace, I worked with seven editors. Some offered objective, constructive feedback that elevated the manuscript, while others allowed personal biases to dictate their advice. By the end, it felt like too many "cooks" were adjusting the recipe, sometimes to the detriment of the final product.
I learned two key lessons: First, it's impossible to satisfy everyone; aim to resonate with as broad an audience as possible. Second, ensure that any changes based on editorial feedback still reflect your original voice and vision.
Valuable Advice
The first editor, Prudy, offered crucial insights. She loved the book but suggested starting at the wedding, believing that was the true beginning. She also advised plotting the story over a calendar timeline, integrating real-life events to enrich the narrative.
Another editor focused on improving my overall writing skills rather than the specific story. Her critique on overusing certain words led me to expand my vocabulary and refine my style. However, I disagreed with her suggestions about the characters' childlessness and church attendance, as they seemed to stereotype based on her personal views rather than the story's needs.
The Benefit of Multiple Perspectives
Consulting various editors can sometimes yield a consensus on significant changes. In my case, six out of seven editors recommended strengthening the ending to enhance reader satisfaction. The dissenting opinion came from a friend, who felt leaving more to the reader's imagination was beneficial. Revising the ending was a tough decision, but I eventually agreed with the majority.
Navigating Conflicting Advice
Authors may encounter editors who offer contradictory feedback, particularly on grammar. For instance, one editor's traditional English style led to extensive comma use, while another reduced them significantly, resulting in the "Comma War." Selecting and adhering to a specific grammatical style guide, like the Chicago Manual of Style, can help resolve such conflicts.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the editorial process is subjective. An editor might suggest major rewrites that don't align with your vision. In my experience, I found a compromise by making minor adjustments that preserved the story's essence while respecting the editor's input.
Remember, as the author, the story remains yours. Finding a harmonious middle ground ensures that it reflects your unique voice and creativity.
You can find the original non-AI version of this article here: Editorial Advice To Listen Or Not To Listen .
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