Independent Writers of Chicago
Chicago Women in Publishing
The Author-Editor Relationship: Editorial Diplomacy
What’s involved when working with acquisitions editors, agents, copyeditors, and proofreaders? How do authors and editors help each other to create the best possible outcomes in publishing? The author/editor relationship should be mutually supportive and beneficial because they both have the same the goal: putting the best versions of their books out there to increase sales. Diplomacy is the key here. Occasionally, one might hear:
Author: “She cut that entire chapter? He said my dialogue was weak! Who do these editors think they are?”
Editor: “I wish this author would trust my expertise and know that my evaluation is fair and balanced. I don’t want to rewrite their books, I just want to help my authors!”
But this is an important collaborative relationship that should never be contentious. If you’re an author, you’ve probably gasped when a manuscript you’ve labored over for months or years came back from the editor with more Track Changes than you’d ever seen before. If you’re an editor, you know it’s hard to evaluate and edit someone else’s words and still maintain order with tact. Even though you’re careful, your edits and feedback might feel like a personal attack, because writing is so personal.
Our panel is composed of the following authors and editors who can help both editors and authors to navigate their ultimately satisfying, yet sometimes tricky, relationship.
Cost
On or before February 16: CWIP Basic Members $10; nonmembers $25; students with ID $10.
After February 18: CWIP Basic Members $15; nonmembers $30; students with ID $15.
The event is free for CWIP Premium Members. Cash or check only at the door. No refunds.
How to Register
Visit https://CWIP.formstack.com/forms/editorialdiplomacy
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