Editors and writers seem to have similar skills but from different angles and perspectives. At the moment, my editor is me, myself, and I, though I do try to put on a separate thinking cap when I’m officially in editing mode. It’s working for now 🤷♀️
I agree with your conclusion. To me, the important question isn’t whether an editor can write a novel, but whether they understand storytelling, recognise the author’s intentions, and respect the author’s voice.
That respect must be mutual, though. An author should also trust a good editor enough to consider difficult advice; such as being told that a passage relies too heavily on exposition and would be stronger if the information were developed more naturally through the story. The editor should not try to take ownership of the work, but the author must be willing to see what familiarity with the manuscript may have made invisible to them.
That balance of respect, honesty, and trust seems far more important than whether the editor writes fiction of their own.
Editors and writers seem to have similar skills but from different angles and perspectives. At the moment, my editor is me, myself, and I, though I do try to put on a separate thinking cap when I’m officially in editing mode. It’s working for now 🤷♀️
I agree with your conclusion. To me, the important question isn’t whether an editor can write a novel, but whether they understand storytelling, recognise the author’s intentions, and respect the author’s voice.
That respect must be mutual, though. An author should also trust a good editor enough to consider difficult advice; such as being told that a passage relies too heavily on exposition and would be stronger if the information were developed more naturally through the story. The editor should not try to take ownership of the work, but the author must be willing to see what familiarity with the manuscript may have made invisible to them.
That balance of respect, honesty, and trust seems far more important than whether the editor writes fiction of their own.
Couldn't agree more. Thanks for your thoughts on this.
Im glad it's working. Self editing is an important skill too. We all need it.