An Editor's Tips/I'm the Elf, you're Santa

My writing career has branched more seriously into the role of editor. It’s challenging, fun, and I’m always learning something new. When it comes to working with author and illustrator submissions, I receive lots of inquiries about what is expected, what is needed, how to do right to find, work with, and have a healthy and happy relationship with an editor.

Here are a few things I’ll share. This is my own opinion of course, and every editor as well as every author and illustrator has their own set of do’s and don’ts.

First, an editor wants the artwork or text to achieve the creator’s intentions. So, it’s never about someone else changing it, but instead, finding the clearest and strongest path to achieve the submitter’s concept and ideas. I’m also playing the role of pretending I’m the book buyer and reader. Will I like what I’m reading or seeing? Is there a powerful theme, plot or vision? Any pointless words to dispose of that simply clutter the plot? Does the artwork flow easily from page to page? Is the color scheme appealing to the age group?

From here, it’s important to keep in mind that we both have the same goal to make a book, artwork, story, poem, any submission, the very best it can be! I’m the behind the scenes Santa’s helper, the Elf that works on building and mending the most lovely toys for girls and boys (or adults). You’re the “Santa” that will ride it into the world on a magical sleigh. It doesn’t matter if the work is self-published, traditionally published, released to just friends and family, an article for a magazine, an on-line publication – who is the target audience? How many will it ultimately reach? Where does it lovingly belong? We prep for this behind the scenes, while you end up ultimately delivering it.

If you’re the author, trust in the illustrator’s playing field. Allow them the space to travel in their paints, pencils, and palette’s to make your written dreams come to life. Most artists are quick to make adjustments if they are off track, and teamwork is integral. Drop the defenses, and it’s okay to suggest and even stand firm at times, both as writer and illustrator. If you have a super reason for something and can justify its relevance or how important it is – great! Together, we often come up with lots of compromises not previously considered.

The last thing I’ll say is to really know what you’re writing or illustrating about. If you’re passionate about your submission and have done the research, I’ll know. Your subject and you need to have some intimacy. For example, when I work with other poets, I value an explanation of why there’s a choice to not have a rhyme in a certain spot or why having a bumpy last verse is the way to go.

So, keep these things in mind – and you’ll have a smooth ride. Happy writing, illustrating, and creating!
Chuckles and Smiles