Edit with compassion from "summary" of Bird by Bird by Anne Lamott
Editing with compassion is a concept that may seem foreign at first, especially in the cutthroat world of writing and publishing. When we think of editing, we often envision ruthless slashing and burning of words, criticism that cuts to the bone. But what if we approached editing with a kinder, gentler touch?Compassionate editing is about seeing the potential in a piece of writing, even when it's messy or imperfect. It's about understanding that behind every word on the page is a human being who poured their heart and soul into their work. When we edit with compassion, we approach the process with empathy and understanding, rather than judgment and harshness. This doesn't mean that we let everything slide or ignore mistakes. It simply means that we approach the work with a sense of kindness and generosity. We offer constructive feedback, not destructive criticism. We help the writer see where they can improve, while also acknowledging the strengths in their writing. Compassionate editing is about building up, not tearing down. It's about fostering a sense of trust and collaboration between writer and editor. When writers feel supported and encouraged, they are more likely to take risks, push boundaries, and ultimately produce better work. Editing with compassion also means recognizing that writing is a deeply personal and vulnerable act. It takes courage to put your thoughts and feelings out into the world, knowing that they will be scrutinized and judged. As editors, we have a responsibility to honor that vulnerability and treat it with care.- Editing with compassion is about creating a space where writers feel safe to explore, experiment, and grow. It's about nurturing creativity rather than stifling it. And in doing so, we not only help writers improve their craft, but also cultivate a community of support and respect within the writing world.
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