Monday 23 July 2012

Who are you? And what have you done with my WIP?

I'm coming to the end of yet another round of revisions on my WIP, and it's interesting to look back and see how my attitude has changed towards this process.

Initially, it was a chore. 

With previous WIP's, the thrill of getting the idea out of my head into something tangible is always an enjoyable part.  The way that the details present themselves as you expand on an idea and the story starts to run away from you as it gains momentum, gives me a really good buzz.  But the revisions...?  These always seemed to be a long slog. 

This book, however, has changed everything.  It's probably because I've learnt so much while writing and editing it, but the revisions have been fun, and every change has made me feel like I'm getting closer to making this piece a viable candidate for publication.  It's also because I have some great Crit partners who have made the process so enjoyable.  Being able to discuss some of the changes to find the best way of wording something or the most impact has helped considerably.

This morning, it struck me that I'm going to reach a point where I feel the book is where I want it to be.  Obviously, that's when I'll be trying to get someone else to think the same.  So, for arguments sake, if I do manage to get a book deal and the editor starts to suggest changes, will they be taking my book to somewhere new that isn't where I left it?

The big question is..... do authors who get their work published still feel as connected with their work, or do they feel it's been hi-jacked to make it as commercially successful as possible?

14 comments:

  1. I wish I knew the answer to this question. I'll do my best to give you what I hope someday will be my answer: I would like whatever changes I make to my MS to improve my writing.

    I'm glad you're feeling good about you WIP. That's really what matters most.

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    1. I've learnt so much on the last 18 months. Every part of writing this book has been enjoyable :o)

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  2. I'm with Em. Wish I knew the answer. Hopefully you'll be answering it for us soon! I love seeing my WIP improve and look forward to taking the next step!

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    1. I think you have more confidence in my writing than I do. lol
      If I find the answer, I'll make sure I let you know :o)

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  3. That's an interesting question. I imagine, or at least I hope, that writers feel in collaboration with their editors/agents/publishers/marketing teams for the same goal: selling that book!

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  4. Suggestions are just that. Suggestions. If something doesn't feel right, speak up. There's nothing wrong with a little back-and-forth in this business. Discussion makes your MS stronger. :)

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  5. Sometimes I forget that thay are working with you. Thanks :o)

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    1. (And don't think I didn't notice the subliminal plug for your book. lol)

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    2. No problem!

      ...What subliminal plug? I just want to focus on the STRENGTH of your novel. ;)

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  6. Can't help you with your question, but I know accomplishing a WiP draft is a great feeling. Make it yours first and let your representation handle the commercial (or something like that). :)

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    1. It does feed good when you know you've just made it that little bit better, doesn't it :o)
      I know what you meant, and I think you're right. So, I'll worry about it if it ever happens.

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  7. Hello! *waves* New to the blog. So nice to 'meet' you!

    I'm with Carrie. I think, if something really bothers you that an editor wants to change, it's your work, and you always have the right to say no. But it's important to take into consideration WHY they are telling you what they are. But if you still don't agree with them, then say no.

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    1. Hello Kelley, thanks for visiting. *waves back*
      I seemed to have lost sight that it's still my work, even if I've managed to get a deal. Thanks for the advice :o)

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