Line by Line: How to Rewrite, Rework & Reword
March 24, 9-5 Tabor Space, 5441 S.E. Belmont, Portland, OR Cost: $75
Every good writer is also an editor. The tough thing about self-editing is learning what to keep, what to lose, and what to leave well enough alone. For some this can be difficult because writers are extremely close to their work and read what they meant to write, not what’s actually on the page. This workshop will give you perspective on all that. We’ll cover the all-important level of line editing—or how to make each sentence and paragraph sing, how to choose words for potency and resonance, and how to transform clunky sentences and paragraphs into smooth beauties. We’ll be line editing examples throughout the workshop. The aim is to polish so the pages are not only easy to read, but a pleasure to read. Generous handouts and cheat sheets will be supplied. We’ll cover:
• Definitions of developmental editing, copy editing, line editing and proofreading.
• The five steps of line editing and ways to analyze your work with an impersonal eye.
• How to keep a close eye on word usage, looking out for misused words, overused words, crutch words, and words which do not belong.
• We’ll chop clutter and excess prepositions, amp up language, learn where to place emphasis and word grenades.
• How to spot flatness, lack of variety and lack of verve.
• How to retool the language throughout so that it’s more evocative.
• How to smooth out clumsy narrative and clunky dialogue.
• How to correct basic grammar and punctuation problems.

contact me at jessicapage (at)spiritone(dot)com