Behind the Scenes: How Much Editing Takes Place After a Manuscript is Represented
The process of bringing a manuscript to market is often shrouded in mystery. Many writers wonder how much editing takes place after their work is represented or sold to a publisher. Here, we explore this common curiosity and delve into the nuances of the editing process within the publishing industry.
Differences in Individual Experiences
From personal experience, no significant editing was required for my last novel. The publishers did not find the expense of extensive editing and felt that the manuscript was already in sufficient condition for publication. This underscores the subjective nature of the editing process, as it can vary greatly from one work to another.
Other publishers, however, invest heavily in thorough editing to ensure that the final product meets their high standards. It is important to note that these publishers typically have teams of professional editors who meticulously review the manuscript with a fine-tooth comb. The extent of their involvement can range from minimal to extensive, depending on various factors such as the author's name, the subject matter, cultural significance, and the judgment of the editor on the quality of the finished manuscript.
The Perspectives of Writers
As a writer, one often feels a deep connection to their work, with a keen eye for maintaining the essence and integrity of the original storyline. The idea that an editor might alter the narrative to fit their standards can be disconcerting. Nevertheless, it is a widely accepted practice in the industry, and it is often a part of the negotiation process when a manuscript is sold.
Writers may prefer to keep their storylines intact, but this can sometimes be at odds with the expectations of professional editors. The role of an editor is to ensure that the manuscript is polished, coherent, and professional, addressing issues ranging from trivial to significant. These issues can encompass grammatical errors, syntactical issues, spelling mistakes, and even factual inaccuracies. Such errors are seen as proofreading issues, while more serious errors might include problems with the timeline, structural inconsistencies, verbosity, or omissions of crucial information.
The Role of Publishers
Today, publishers often expect authors to deliver manuscripts that require minimal editing. Nonetheless, major issues do arise, and these can fall into two categories: trivial and serious. Trivial issues include minor errors that a competent writer should be able to avoid, such as typos, grammatical mistakes, and syntax issues. These are typically caught during the proofreading stage.
In contrast, serious issues involve major problems that significantly impact the coherence and readability of the work. These can include errors in the timeline, structural discrepancies, excessive wordiness, or the omission of essential information. For instance, if a manuscript is highly technical, as in the case of aviation, a knowledgeable editor might request that certain passages be expanded to ensure that non-specialists can understand the material.
A Personal Example
One of my novels, published by William Morrow in New York, required significant adjustments to improve comprehension for readers who were not aviation enthusiasts. The editor-in-chief, the renowned Howard Cady, requested that several passages be expanded. This task was completed within a week, demonstrating the real-world application of such editing requests.
Ultimately, the amount of editing required depends on a combination of factors. It reflects the publisher's expectations and the editor's judgment of the manuscript's final quality. As a writer, it is essential to understand and prepare for the process, while also advocating for the vision and integrity of your work when necessary.