So I was M.I.A on my last few posts and I am very sorry for that. Life kind of threw up on me lol. Anyway, I'm back now and I wanted to handle a topic that a lot of writers say they're fine with but when it comes down to the nitty gritty they actually balk more often than not. We're talking chopping your manuscript up into little pieces and rebuilding.
Yeah, we all know we need to cut our darlings and, yes, it can be tough. But what if someone wants to cut a character? A major plot twist? An entire location? A theme? An ending? A start?
Think it can't happen? Wrong. It totally can.
Now, I'm not saying it'll happen to you, but you need to be aware that it could. Especially if you're wanting to get published and an agent or editor says, "well, you know that handsome, cute MC's boyfriend you have...well he has to go."
Most writers get really offended, upset and sure that the agent/editor is trying to turn it into their book and not yours.
But hold up a minute there, folks. Because you're totally on the wrong track. Agents and editors see YOUR vision. They see what you want to achieve, what you want readers to hear and what is the best way possible to get that story out there. Sure, it might seem odd that they ax a character you feel develops your theme, or they cut a location that you think is central to your world building. But before you take up arms...
Your agent/editor is experienced and can see things you can't. They can help you to fully visualize the core of your book. And at the end of the day, if it doesn't work, you can always change it back. Remember, edits are up for discussion. Bat ideas back and forth with your professional companion. Talk things through. Work out plans.
After all, you want your book as good as you can get it, right?
Never forget...this is also a business.
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