Last weekend, I was invited by the Himalayan Writing Retreat for a session on Editing for Writers with the First Draft Club. It was a panel discussion with another wonderful freelancing editor, Ganesh Vancheeswaran.
We talked about the role of editing, and why it is important for a writer (irrespective of the type of publishing you choose to go ahead with). We also discussed the pet peeves of an editor and tips for all aspiring writers.
First things first. I worked with Himalayan Writing Retreat for close to three years till October 2022. Among many other initiatives I worked on during my stint with HWR, the First Draft Club was one of those. The idea behind FDC was to bring together writers and industry specialists from the literary world to discuss Writing and Publishing in India at large.
For starters, it was a great feeling to be back at FDC and that too as a guest. It felt wonderful to be at the other end of the table and be asked questions, rather than be the one who asked questions.
Talking about editing, publishing, and writing is something that excites me a lot. I have been freelancing since 2014 and have been a part of this industry since 2011. I have observed it closely enough to be able to comment on the changing trends amongst many other things.
I will share the link to the session once it is live on HWR’s YouTube channel. But sharing a few things which I feel all writers should keep in mind while working on their books.
- Don’t think in any language other than English while writing in English. The literal translation done in your mind shows in the writing.
- Read. A lot. Read everything. Read outside your genre. Read within your genre. Read classics. Read trash. Read as much as you can for that is what helps you improve your writing.
- Be patient. With the process of writing and editing. Bestsellers are not made overnight. Your book is a product of love. Nurture it with patience and hard work.
- Work with editors, sensitivity readers, and beta-readers with whom you connect. To bring the best out of your book you need people who understand the core essence of the book.
- Be open to criticism and feedback. If you do not take it from the editors or beta readers, you will receive it from the reviewers/readers once the book is released.
I am currently working on hosting a workshop on Publishing in India. Will share the details soon.
If you are a literary community that would me to talk about Editing and Publishing in India or host a workshop, please get in touch at contact@keemiyacreatives.com
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