Revision English II

What is revision? A “looking again” – evaluating your work with a fresh eye. NOT the same as editing or proofreading “Revision is the single most important thing you can do for your work. In almost all cases, you’ll end up with a much stronger story.” Nancy Kress, Beginnings, Middles and Endings Nobody ever said it was going to be easy…

When to revise You can revise during the writing process… …but you might want to put the story away for a while – a few days, a week or a month. When you no longer think it is absolutely (brilliant/stupid), you are ready to consider the manuscript dispassionately.

What to look for when revising 1). A short (1-2 sentence) summary of what the story is about. Read the story through once just to get a sense of it. Write down any initial opinions you have about the story. What does the story promise the reader?

Examples: Summaries “This story was about two people who come into a house and find that someone had died. They investigate the situation to find that it was a man named James A. Fickle, with a note that may or may not have been a suicide note. The story tells about how this man was found and how his life may have ended.”   “Alana has severe anxiety and depression, and even though she has a flawless boyfriend, she won’t tell him her biggest secret. She meets a gorgeous lady that she really likes. They both feel something going on. They soon confess to each other about their feelings after Alana had gotten picked on.”

What to look for when revising 2). What did you enjoy about the story? What was particularly interesting or memorable? Captivating scenes Characters you care about Lively dialogue An interesting plot The story delivered on its promise

Examples: What you liked “I liked the confusion in this story. While reading it, I was confused as to what was going on. It kept me on my toes. I liked in the end how the author explained (the character’s) mental illness through her medical sheet, rather than coming straight out and telling us about it.” “Probably my favorite part and the most impressive section was the description of her getting the call and being informed of his death. That is an unimaginable amount of shock, grief, pain and confusion all mixed in one roller coaster of emotion and somehow it was conveyed very, very strongly in a way that climaxed at an extremely emotional response from the reader.”

What to look for when revising 3). What do you think the author’s goal was in writing this story?

Examples: Goals “I think the main goal of the story was to never judge a book by its cover. So even though Stan’s parents believed that pit bulls were aggressive dogs, Peanut clearly proved them wrong. Being a loving and loved dog made Peanut overcome the past.”   “I think that the author’s goal was to surprise the reader and give them a sense of hope at the same time.”

What to look for when revising 4). How well did the author manage to achieve this goal? Did the main character change? Did each scene advance the plot? Did the poem capture a particular feeling, moment or idea? Did they come up with something new and original – whether they intended to or not?

Examples: Did the author succeed? “The author successfully created a character who faced both internal and external struggle. However, the resolution was ambiguous as to whether the main character would find any relief from his conflict.”   “The author succeeded in this goal very well. It was very surprising that a little dog could have such violent thoughts, but it was a nice twist.”

What to look for when revising? 5). Any additional thoughts or comments? “This reminds me of…” “Have you ever thought about…” “I know this sounds crazy, but…”

Examples: Additional thoughts “I believe that the author’s goal to tell an unexpected heartbreak scene was exceptional, and by all means was creative.”   “I love how the author makes Ryder a strong character. When the cop questions him, he does the right thing and doesn’t make excuses for himself. I also love the last line, ‘I have my own reasons for my actions.’ ”

Writers Be positive. Remember, you are NOT your work! “Only the mediocre person is always at his best” Somerset Maugham Be prepared. Tell your reviewer what kind of help you need. Be open to suggestions, but trust yourself. Find the good, even in bad advice.

Reviewers Develop a constructive attitude. Be honest, but be professional. Be clear and specific. Address important issues first. Encourage the writer Ask the kinds of questions a reader would ask