Refitting…
C.E. Grundler
I'm closing in on the end of this editing process for Last Exit, and it's been quite an experience to say the least. What initially weighed in at over 122,000 words now totals just under 107,000. The original goal was to trim 15,000-20,000 words, though my editor said if we managed only 10K the publisher would be happy. It was a tall order, deciding what could stay and what could go without taking away from the plot or voice.
The way I see it, editing is like fixing up a boat floating low on her waterline. To maximize a boat's performance, function and comfort, we need to take a close look at every inch. Foremost, she should float and not leak. Stripped to a bare hull she might be sound, but not very functional and certainly not enjoyable. Now, let's take a look at the sails, rigging and engine. Is everything working as it should? Good. That's a start, but there's more ahead.
Take a good, hard look at the gear aboard. How much of it truly serves a purpose? If something is broken, either fix it or get rid of it Is anything redundant? Does the toolbox contain two 5/16th wrenches but no 7/8ths? Though the goal is to cut weight, now's the time to assess what should be aboard but isn't. How about the PFDs? Do you have enough? Too many? Are they starting to show their age? Maybe it's time to simply toss them and start fresh. Is anything outdated? At best, expired flares take up space; at worst they could fail you when you need them most. And while we're talking expired, how are the galley provisions and medical supplies in the head.
But there's still more excess weight hiding in the most obvious places. Layers of bottom-paint can build up, creating drag and obscuring the true lines beneath. A few pounds here and a few there start to add up, and any boat will move faster with a clean bottom. Look in the lazerette. Are you carrying dock lines you wouldn't trust? Now step back. Can you see your boot-stripe again? Great, but we're not done, not just yet!
Now it's time to break out the varnish and polish the brass. For a boat to be sleek and efficient, it need not be sterile and characterless. In their day, many classic yachts were fitted out with the most magnificent details, and while some modern composite craft may cross the line that much faster, I suspect a sail aboard this magnificent 52′ 1898 Summers and Payne Gaff Yawl would still be quite exhilarating and memorable.
Other things I've learned through this editing/refitting process. A considerate and supportive household is priceless. Despite the 'sandwich' part, Cheez-Its and an ice-cream sandwich does not qualify as lunch. During 12 hour work-days, ½ hour power naps and vast volumes of tea + No-Doz are critical. On another note, for anyone interested, the lovely vessel pictured here is for sale for the asking price of 399,000 EUR (US$ 527,398)
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