thunking

[lagilman]

a curious thought.... because of who I was in my previous life (NYC genre editor, for those of you coming in late), I have never (and seem unlikely, at this point, unless I sell something Serious Lit'Ry) worked with an editor I didn't know at least socially beforehand. I've never gotten a "hi, I'm your editor" letter, never had to ease into figuring out personality and working-style....

I think maybe I'm missing a Stage of Authorial Development.

I'm sure I'll survive.

It's just weird.

It is also 70 degrees at midnight. Bleah. Do. Not. Want.

To come at some point: my review of Prince Caspian, thoughts on the books I'm not reading right now, and possible more thunks on blueprints, mapmaking, and the demands of accuracy of the world in your head....

Comments

[windrose.livejournal.com]

I quite like workshopping with you because of your editorial background. It gives you a unique perspective, because you understand the process from both sides.

[desperance.livejournal.com]

I'm envious. I've had a lifetime of "hi, I'm your new editor" - at its worst, three different times on the same book. And I'm just going through it again.

It works out, mostly - but it does take work. And you just get 'em nicely trained and then they're off, and there's another stranger behind the desk. If you ever see the desk. These days, writing in the UK and publishing in the States, I've had whole editorial relationships with people I've never met and never spoken to, it's all been e-mail...

[lagilman]

*nod* I've had to write a few of those "Hi, I'm..." letters, and left a few folk in the position of getting them (although I've mostly been able to arrange a transition period, rather than "sur-prise!"). I really wish publishers would decide where projects go with better timing, but it rarely seems to work that way.

[ex-fashioni.livejournal.com]

I think maybe I'm missing a Stage of Authorial Development.

No, really... you're not. Especially of the "Hi, I've just been given your MS—I'm looking forward to working with you."

(That was the one I got from your brand new editor, btw. *g*)

I will say this, the best editor letter ever?

"Hi, I read your book and I've got this idea that I think you'd be the perfect author for if you'd consider taking it on."

And then editor, rather than being micromanaging crazy, lets you run with the idea and make it your own.

Best. Editor. Ever.