Samples of Writing and Edited Text

Not all writers are editors, nor all editors are writers. I’m a hybrid, acting in the role of one or the other as the client requests.

In this project, artist Edwina McDuffie Goodman wanted to share her story about resilience at midlife after a life-changing event. A quick read of the following pages offers a take on her experience. We reviewed her initial manuscript together. It was organized but needed more detail. She was quite animated during our interview. My goal was to inject that tone into her manuscript. We went through several drafts of the book, and we talked more at the kitchen table. Her natural voice came out; I took additional notes. Those nuggets became part of the final manuscript. Once we finished the chapters, she asked me to write the preface. I took complete pleasure in shifting from editor to writer. You’ll see that my style varies from Edwina’s, and that is the beauty of creativity.

Here’s the point: I respect the boundaries between an editor and writer. As an editor, I will ensure your copy suits your voice, story, brand, message, mission, and targeted audience…with grammar, punctuation, and mechanics in place. (I do know when to break rules for maximum effect!) I will not impose my personal style on your copy.

When you hire me as a writer, I will listen carefully and craft the copy on your terms. And you’ll have the bonus of a built-in proofreader!

Preface to Singing on Canvasa memoir by artist Edwina McDuffie Goodman

Edited Text: “When Everything Changed” from Singing on Canvas

Edited Text: “When Everything Changed” (continued)

Edited Text: “When Everything Changed” (continued)

Edited Text: “When Everything Changed” (continued)