I miss my editor

[sophia jane]

Having written a bit lately, I've been thinking alot about my editor, Softouch, who isn't around these parts anymore. We "met" here on lit, and tho I don't remember now how it happened, we hit it off as friends and as writers. We used to edit for each other, and I know I owe him a great deal of thanks for my development as a writer.
We didn't use proofread for each other, tho having a reader is always nice. We truly went in for detailed edits- asking each other questions of character and voice, pushing each other to tell a story and not just a detailed fucking. Of course, I still wrote some of those fucking stories, but I also wrote some other works that were much better (imo). I miss that editing relationship.

So, anyway, I wonder how many of you have that kind of relationship with someone? Or have that kind of editor? How did you hook up (as writers/editors, you pervs!)? And, my biggest question of all, how can I find it for myself again!?

 

[TxRad]

Morning SJ

I'd also like to find another good friend and editor for my Lit stuff. The first one I had decided to write herself and went mainstream. The second one died. Since then I've just let it be. I know I need an editor for obvious grammar and spelling reasons but i also want someone who can keep me focused. I have that in my mainstream writing but I miss it here.

Lots of lucky finding someone else. It's almost like trying to find a new husband or wife in a lot of ways. I've given up on the new wife part a long time ago.

 

[penandpaper]

Sophie,

Good luck. I generally use my wife as an editor, but it's difficult. Taking criticism from someone else who doesn't write (and that you are extremely close to) just has never felt right. Don't get me wrong, I appreciate her suggestions and truly appreciate her taking the time out of her life to read my stuff, but, and I don't know how to say it, it's not the same as a real editor.

She actually has a theory on that: You're married to someone for awhile, so you just naturally feel as though you know everything they do. You share everything, so why not. Then when they try to teach you something new (not just in writing, but life, food, math, whatever), you don't listen to them because they can't possibly know something you don't. Then, to make matters worse, you'll have a complete stranger come along and say the same exact thing they were trying to teach you, and poof - instant credibility. It's a neat pschological trick our mind loves to play on us to increase the trust of another human being.

 

[JAMESBJOHNSON]

My GF is a professional writer and editor. She reviews most of what I write and never spares my feelings.

I read it this weekend, most people ignore or discredit any advice that comes from a non-celebrity; and I believe it. The researchers disguised a popular celebrity who sells out concerts, had him perform in a public place, and 1000s ignored him as he sang and danced.