Editing techniques

moneyonthepage · Sep 13, 2006

First, Hi I am a Newbie. I have been playing over in the poetry group and lurking over here. Recently I have gotten serious on a piece a friend from the poetry forum gave me for fun, something to pass the time. I am at 1800 words with it and basing my desired length on the Length thread my aim is 3000 words.

I am a little over half way through it. I have a bump in it I need to get through and then I can finish it. But when I finish it I need to run it through for editing. Being that I am new, if there is a thread on this, please just set me that direction and I will read it. If anyone has any suggestions I am happy to hear them.

Thank you,
Page

pdr · Sep 13, 2006

Editing

For writers new to short stories who ask about editing I usually tell them this.

1. Ask yourself whose story is it?
Is that clear when you read it?

2. What are you trying to say?
Is that clear when you read it?

If neither is clear then you must make them clear by rewriting.

3. Does every single word have an important part in telling the story?
No? Tighten up.
Check all the descriptions and lose some words.
Make every verb a good strong one that paints a picture.
Can you use one word instead of two?

Short stories must not be flabby. They are keen, lean, and a pleasure to read.

Happy Editing.

moneyonthepage · Sep 13, 2006

Thank you! That helps! As I am writing it that is what I am doing. I can use one word instead of three or the description is too descriptive and can be cut down.

I'll work on the other two...

Kate Thornton · Sep 14, 2006

PDR is too right!

Another thing you might want to try is reading for the story - no matter how fine your writing, how excellent your grammar, the story must be strong. There must be a compelling reason to read the piece, a reason to finish it, a reason to go back and re-read or think about it. You want a memorable story.

And welcome to the world of short fiction - it's a glorious place.

Editing techniques

moneyonthepage

pdr

moneyonthepage

Kate Thornton

Still Happy to be Here. Or Anywhere