How to Edit
There is a classic line from the great film, Almost Famous, which perfectly describes the editing process. The character of Lester Bangs is an editor of a music magazine. He is advising a young writer how to go about writing a good article and tells the youngster to “Be honest, and unmerciful.” It can be very difficult to edit your own … Keep Reading → work. We tend to get attached to our own words and thoughts. As you go through the material though, you must be honest and unmerciful. Read for logical structure. If sections do not move the narrative forward or seem illogical, they must be cut or rewritten. Constantly ask yourself why sentences and paragraphs are there; if you can’t come up with a good answer, once again cut it or rewrite. There are some excellent books that can help you navigate the process of editing. Line by Line by Claire Kehrwald Cook is an excellent guide. There are several others. Find a process that works for you and follow it. But most of all be honest, and unmerciful.
