I'm a little behind this week and it's only Tuesday. Not a good thing. Right now, I'm in the process of cutting words from ATB. This is a good thing, but it takes time going through line by line to decide if something is needed or not. Does it really move the story along? Or if it doesn't move the story, is it still needed to give a sense of place, time, and little bits of info on the H/H?
So far I've cut 6000 words and I'm only in chapter 9. My plans are to cut around 6 - 8K more, but we'll see. :)
For me the process means printing out the manuscript and red lining the pages and then going to the computer to input (or cut), the words. I know it would be quicker to just do it online the screen once and for all.
Doesn't work for me. I get cut happy. Really, I do. I start out with little to nothing cut off the page and before you know, I'm marking huge sections. So I do it on paper to keep the logical person within me happy. When I'm sitting in front of the computer, I can then say, nope need to keep this part.
Many of the editors who used to ask for higher word counts are now lowering them, due to paper cost and the economy in general. Cutting is in order. For those who’ve read ATB, I’m not losing any of its story, but tightening the pacing. I love it.
The day job is crazy. One of my bosses is moving to NY (big sigh, cause he's great to work for), and Science Guy and I are trying to find a house. And I need to have the cutting process done, the manuscript re-read (get ready cp's), and ready to mail out to the GH hopefully next Monday. The deadline approaches.
How about you? What's your process for cutting down your manuscript? Are you on a deadline now?
Writing Wishes and Plotting Dreams,
Vicki
3 comments:
There are never enough hours, are there?
You'll get it all done.
I'm like you. Gotta print and sit down, pen in hand, to do a serious cut/revision. Get carried away online.
Best wishes for the GH!
Are you cutting your manuscript because you feel you have too many words? Or are you cutting for the sake of the story?
Just being nosy... :)
Since I have a PC stuck to my desk. I too print out and sit in a comfy chair for revisions, although not all the time.
Anyway, good luck, Vicki!!
I also meant to say: Yes, I need more hours in the day, as well!
My last comment sounds goofy since you did say why you were cutting words. I guess I was wondering if you have a request for your manuscript or if it's for the GH? :)
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