Embracing Revision - Making the Doughnuts

Writing is rewriting. I detest that truth. The number of times that I think in my head when I go to edit a piece: gotta go make the doughnuts. I sit down at my computer, sigh, and start examining the text that I have already read a baker's dozen of times. Editing is exhausting, but it is also where the magic of writing occurs.

When I have worked on a passage to no avail, and then, poof, out of nowhere, the word that describes an image or situation appears out of the aether. That feeling of exhilaration can only be described as Pure Joy!

As a novice writer, I considered the first draft done. Teachers, friends, and critique groups showed me, not quite done, but getting there. And so the hard truth is that editing doesn't have a finite number; the number of drafts for one chapter could be a few, and for another chapter, ten or more. It varies, which is often what makes editing maddening.

I moaned and groaned about "the process", but I knew the secret that the magic of writing often happens in revision. The story and character insights only happen as you dig deeper. Beneath the surface is an ocean reef or Mariana Trench of discoveries.

Some tricks to approach the editing "process":

• Take a break before revising: Distance helps you see your work with fresh eyes.

• Read aloud: Hearing your words can reveal awkward phrasing or pacing issues.

• Focus on big-picture edits first: Plot, character, and structure come before grammar and punctuation.

• Edit in another format: Copy the text that you are working on and input it into a different word processing form.

Revision is where your story truly takes shape. It’s a process of sculpting, polishing, and refining until your words shine. Writing is a journey of patience and joy. Remember, every great writer started with a single word, a single sentence, a single step. So, take that editing step today and watch your stories come alive. May your pen always find the words that sing.