Thoughts on Editing

Editing is not just mechanical. It is something to think about which is above and beyond the work that is done. It is the asking of the questions: Is this the best work that can be done? What is missing? What is in excess? Is the essence of the work alright? Who voice is this? What about the words? Which one fit just right? Does it flow? Does it make sense? 

It is a nagging and critical sense that one has to look at the work with - which is not a pleasant state to be in. One must go paragraph through paragraph - not just the grammar but the structure and the concept and the essence. One must truly mull over philosophically and practically and obsessively till the writing flows.

The craft of writing is not complete without the perfect amalgamation of words and how it is said. The excess of words spoils it like too much milk in coffee. In times of editing, I realize how excruciating this work is, yet I can see dust turn into gold. I can feel the alchemy happening, and each word seems almost insufferable.