Writers, whether experienced or new, frequently come across this problem. It’s easily done, I’m sure we’ve all been guilty of doing it. What is it? Overwriting. In this post, we’ll take a look at how to identify and remove instances of overwriting from your manuscript.
Category Archives: Language
Suddenly, the editor deleted my words
A client recently asked me if I ever have an opinion on certain words. I don’t. Words are there to communicate a message – to tell a story. I do not sit with a dictionary ticking off the words I love and scratching out the words I hate.
Except one.
A Very Sweary Dictionary
When I’m editing or proofreading, I’ll use a variety of tools and reference materials in order to get things right. Along with spelling, one of the biggest things to watch for is hyphenation, closing up or opening up of words.
On LGBTQ+ Editing: The importance of it all.
In this final part, we’ll look at why LGBTQ+ editing is so important and what you can do if you’re not an expert. In this miniseries we have explored LGBTQ+ characters and language. If you haven’t already, take a look at the previous posts and subscribe to get all the latest blog posts direct to your inbox.
On LGBTQ+ editing: Language
What is the language of an LGBTQ+ book? What makes it authentically LGBTQ+?
Commas and adjectives
When do you need to use a comma when listing adjectives and why do you see no comma between some adjectives?
Emails, tweets, texts …
Emails, texts, tweets and status updates. They are everywhere in our lives and so, increasingly, they are finding their way into novels.
But exactly how do you show this emails, texts, tweets and the like in your own writing?
It depends …
Often, as an editor, I’m asked about what’s right. People assume that there are rules, after all, language can’t be completely random can it?
Well, very often there is no right answer. It depends!
Going italic for Italian
Let’s not get laissez-faire over this. There are rules! So, settle down with your café noir, if that’s your preference, and let’s discuss italics.
Don’t cause a distraction
Every time I walk into a branch of a, well-known, discount chain, I am distracted by the massive sign they have above one of the aisles. It tells me that I can buy “DVD’s” there.
