My first draft is always way too long; my books start out…
“My first draft is always way too long; my books start out with delusions of 'War and Peace' - and must be gently disabused. My editor is brilliant at taking me to the point where I do all the necessary cutting on my own. I like to say she's a midwife rather than a surgeon.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The author acknowledges her drafts are overly long and relies on her editor to help trim them, likening the editor to a midwife who assists in birth rather than a surgeon who cuts.
In simple terms: Drafts start too long; editor helps cut them.
Key Takeaway
Trust the editor to guide concise writing.
Themes
writing
editing
conciseness
author‑editor relationship
Mood
reflective
appreciative
Type
advice
reflection
When to use this quote
- novel writing
- self‑editing
- author workshops
- publishing process
Key Concepts
creative process
self‑editing
collaboration
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you improve your own editing before the editor steps in?
- What does “midwife” suggest about the editor’s role?
A Different Perspective
Over‑reliance on editor may hinder developing self‑editing skills.