Revising–Obvious Needed Changes and Ones Not So Obvious
Posted by lindamartinandersen on September 28, 2015
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“Revising–Obvious Needed Changes and Ones Not So Obvious” by Linda Martin Andersen
When a motel near my home changed ownership, their sign reflected the change. But it’s obvious to me it’s time for yet another change. Wouldn’t you agree?
Copyright 2015 Linda Martin Andersen
Sometimes, the need for story revisions are just this obvious, but not always. In my current work-in-progress, I have written numerous versions of the story. I feel especially good about this one. Does that mean it’s done? Not quite. Recently, a critique partner suggested introducing a group of characters earlier in the story. Since they play a key role, she thought they should appear sooner. I definitely agree. Was this an easy task? Definitely not, but I think it improved the story. Was it an obvious need? Obviously not. Many others had critiqued this manuscript for me and never mentioned it.
From now on, as I critique my own work, I’ll ask myself what are some obvious needed changes as well as ones not so obvious?
Thanks for the inspiration nearby motel. Thanks even more for all my critique partners! Happy writing, everyone.
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A Writer's Playground 
Carol Baldwin said
Love this picture and yes–revision happens on many, many levels!! So good to see you over the weekend.
lindamartinandersen said
You’re so right, Carol. Revision does happen on many, many levels. It was indeed a pleasure to hear your presentation at the SCBWI-C Fall Conference and to enjoy your company. Thanks for leaving a comment!
Joan Y. Edwards said
Dear Linda,
You are very observant. I loved the picture and the change suggested. I’m proud of your openness to change in your story that you believe will make it stronger and stronger! Perhaps you should send the motel a link to your blog post. It might go viral with the Red Roof Inns!
Love,
Joan
lindamartinandersen said
Joan,
What a great idea. Would Red Roof Inn embrace this post or be embarrassed by it? Not sure? One way to find out is to ask.
So sweet of you to say that you are proud of me for being open to change in my story. It is essential to be open-minded. Wishing you all the best with your revisions and editing projects.
sarahsbookreflections said
Good post. One would hope the roof painters are coming soon to motel with lots of bright red paint. You are so right, Linda, about the need for an open mind to more revisions. Though sometimes, I must admit, it comes as a let down to know I have to revise yet again! Love, Sarah
lindamartinandersen said
Hi Sarah,
It was so great to meet you in person at the writers’ conference. You are a great critique partner. Thank you!
I’m glad you enjoyed this post. Yes, we have to be open-minded and listen to others’ suggestions. The final choice rests with the author, of course.
Budgets may be tight at the motel. I’ll let you know if I see a color change. I’ve been looking for one for a while.
Tracy Campbell said
Hi Linda, the new sign sure indicates that the motel needs to paint their roof red. Now that’s a big change. I agree with your points about revising ones writing, but at some point we need to stop revising. Even when we publish our work, there will always be someone who thinks there should be more changes. Thanks for sharing. 😀
lindamartinandersen said
Yes you’re absolutely right, Tracy! Sometimes we do need to call it quits with revision and send our writing/illustrating out into the world, meaning an agent or editor. When is the time right? When you’ve done the very best you can at that point and it feels right.
Tracy Campbell said
Glad you added that we just have to do our very best. That’s my life motto, “Whatever you do in life, work at it with all your heart.” Col. 3:23a 😀
lindamartinandersen said
Tracy, a great life motto. You wear it well.
sandra214 said
Love, love, love the motel photo and the connection you made. Super great observation and post!
lindamartinandersen said
Sandra, you know how to make a writer want to revise! 😉 Thank you for the compliment. I’m glad you enjoyed the post. I’ve been wanting to use that photo somehow and then it came to me. Those are great moments, aren’t they.
I appreciate your visit and comment. Happy writing and revising, of course!