“Editors”: Ahhh, the ranting continues …

As Paul (the space alien not the disciple) sez

“Let the Probing Begin…”

Sure enuff, the ol’ ticky dot cat does indeed seem to have it in for “editors.” Nothing personal, mind you, I is a sorta one myself, but “editors” are like a fish bone stuck in the throat: in order to finish a complete meal—gotta gaaack out, deal with, that pricker…

First: let us establish what background(s) an editor might have to justify messing with your celestially created “poem.”

Many “editors” have taken a high school journalism credit…hmmm? Poetry immersion…probably not. But journalism will at least give them a realistic grasp of writing. An equal number of so called “editors” most likely have a background in some sort of English, Auto Shop or P.E. Hopefully the foremost.

And yes, many have taken a run at, what is laughably called “poetry.” Classic poetry…? is a good foundation. Contemporary poetry…? scary—especially in the post-literate society and the teach-to-test atmosphere of today’s educational system.

Ok. So, now I’ve hacked “editors” (not without bias) but have not mentioned: there is nothing more helpful to a writer, than a real-deal, give-a-crap editor. Not just someone handling the chores and responsibilities of their position, but a person who really—that’s, r-e-a-l-l-y—cares about what the writer has to say, and that it is presented in the finest face possible, with the least amount of meddling…

Second: Let us consider the actual job of an editor.

How many of us, truly have a grasp of this too oft liabled function.

The position of an editor, whether it is for a print (ink) magazine, book publisher, an on-line or air-play entity, it is multi-fold. The job description of an editor might run something like this: Requires: English Lit./Journalism background (obviously, a poetry foundation for those types of publications); proficient with grammar, spelling, punctuation; grasp of obtuse metaphors, similes and underlying themes. Must know how to utilize a dictionary; worshipping the O.E.D.; properly versed in use and understanding of a thesaurus; use, keep and sleep with a New York Times or Chicago style manual at all times. Must know how to background and accuracy data check. Must themselves be a solid creative writer. Must have firm working knowledge of function and procedure of publication operation and timelines. Must have either a graphic art/lay-out background or a good eye for page balance and print-theme arrangement. Must have solid communication skills, and an endless supply of patience. Would be nice to have empathy and a desire to advance the talents of those who submit their hopes and works—blending those with the needs of a successful publishing operation.

Though not stated as such, between the lines of the editor’s job description—

Not desired: Inability to put up with the ego’s and lack of background or writing ability of submitting writers. Misuse of publication’s time and resources trying to correct, guide and mentor those submitting writers—especially those who do not follow direction, wish to be defiant, want to argue, and/or think their scribblings must be seen exactly as submitted or all of the known universe will collapse.

That’s it. Self explanatory. One needs to figure it out or they will perish as a considered published writer.

Hopefully, each writer finds that editor, or even editors, who are the real-deal and have the time and inclination to show, instead of tell. Editors who are committed to their art and responsibility—and are still able to expand the experience of the writers searching, and deserving, to be read…And those writers who want—and are willing to learn.

Peace and good writing,

ever grumpy ol’, Max tdc