As an editor myself I have run into various stresses - dilemmas if you will - that challenge my mind and heart, keep me groping for the wall and wondering what the writer could be thinking.
I like editing, but I prefer writing. And I like an author who does what he or she is asked to do in the beginning stages of working through a manuscript, instead of holding off until the proof is out.
Still, this difficulty may be just as much my fault as it is theirs.
Communication is a grand key that opens doors; without it, both sides (within or without the door) are always guessing, always wondering what they should really be doing. So I've learned a lot from situations like this. I've learned that I must be clear about what I want the writer to check before the book goes into the proof stage. I must be much, much clearer than mud.
And this takes practice as well as patience. So when I say, "Be nice to your editor," I'm also saying to the editors, "Be nice to your writer," because as any writer knows, it takes tremendous courage to get those words out in the first place.
I like this and agree wholeheartedly. My editor is a treasured asset and I thank God for her ability and skills she provides to enhance my book and push me in my writings. We work well together. And it is equally important for both to be kind, sensitive and concern for the other. Thanks for this article.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Vernita. I don't think some writers understand the difficulties of being an editor. This fact was made clear to me just this morning, but I am taking in deep breaths and allowing God's spirit to take care of a few things.
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