November 21, 2006
Marriage Vows
No not the kind between a man and a woman but the kind between a writer and their words.
The first novel I ever wrote, the words were golden. Flawless in every way. Not a one can be changed as it is perfection in the highest. And it shall sit gathering dust under the bed with the 20 x 30 framed picture of Darth Maul as NO ONE wants to buy a book I refuse to edit.
Now don’t get me wrong, it has been gone through for misspells and grammar issues, but I am loathe to change a single phrase or adapt the concept of ideas to better fit a sellable piece of work. (mostly because it WAS the first book I wrote and the concept is not widely held by publishers and I like it the way it is – again, I know it will probably NEVER sell)
Do you know other writers like this? That no matter what the critique you give them when you read it again not a damn thing changed? God forbid an editor try to whip that puppy into shape. (NOT ME HOWEVER)
I have since gotten over my perfection affliction – you have to for an editor to work with you.
But I know of several authors who WILL NOT change their work and are more than offended at the mere suggestion their piece is not perfection from the first draft. I do not believe they will get published. Or if they do, (because editors will buy pieces that need work – if they think they can work with you on it) it will not be twice from the same house when the editorial staff realizes that it doesn’t matter what they say, it will not be changed, that writer’s will is the law and screw the editors’ years of training and reputation. (I repeat – THIS IS NOT ME)
I recently had an editor ask for major (in my mind major as it alters some of the book but not the project on the whole) revisions in book I submitted. I have groused and groaned at having to change the work, NOT because she was wrong but because it is the first time I have had to do major revisions that weren’t my idea and it’s hard to unmarry yourself from the piece. But I will, if it sells the book because ultimately it will do no good sitting beside that other book under my bed!
I think we all know someone like this.
My editor suggested major revisions to book 1 of Ransom & Fortune. I wanted to hide from those edits but after reading through them, and seeing the suggestions she made (some damn good ones, too!), I knew I had to do it. I think it made the book stronger, more believable, and really developed the characters in a way I could never see. It was wonderful! And I’m totally happy with it.
But yeah - it’s very hard to let go that first time out. :)
yes - it was an inspired post!
Fortunately, I’ve not had to do MAJOR revisions (knock on wood), just minor ones.
And fortunately, I’ve had fairly reasonable editors who were willing to DISCUSS the changes, and give me their reasons for requesting them.
But if it ever comes to a point where I totally disagree–would I be willing to change a MS in a way I thought was totally wrong, just to make the sale?
I’d really have to give that some serious thought.
Raine - I hear what you’re saying!
But I have known authors who won’t change anything - there was a guy in the big crit group - we used to get soooo very frustrated becasue he never once took our advice on anything - after one his crit sessions - he up and walked out, quit the group then and there - ’cause he thought we were all wrong….
I think one of the hardest things to learn is to get the fuck over yourself LOL which is basically what it comes down to.
Not every thing we write is golden. We ignore our CP’s, and even our gut. And when we do that we cheat ourselves out of being great writers, bec. ultimately a part of what makes us a great writer is growing as a writer and if you refuse to edit yourself, you won’t grow as a writer.
Damn that was redundant. I’m under no illusions about my writing, as you know from listenting to me whine about Nailed (you’ve got mail).
And I”m going to disagree with you on one point–I think because more and more epublished authors are getting bought, they’re bringing load and loads of experience to the table and a professional attitude (I hope) NY is more and more loathe to work with authors who need work.
You’ve got to bring your A game. And if you can’t bring it, they won’t draft you.
good point Ames!~
Excellent point, Amie!! It was spot on.
Amen sister! You are SO right on! I have a few critique partners, and it always chaps my hide if I critique something for the second time and they didn’t take my advice (and half the time it’s grammar!)
And I know a lot of authors like you describe, unwilling to change the smallest thing in edits, and that pisses me off. You have to be willing to change. I’m doing a revise and resub right now. Some changes I wasn’t sure about, but can agree it would add more to the book.
You need to write a book assuming an editor might want to see changes. Especially in NY. If you don’t want to make any changes to your book, then that’s fine, but don’t plan on selling it.
Hey Shelli - Yeah - I think we all know folks like this - and as someone mentioned once they only do themselves a diservice when they aren’t willing to change something