Do Editors Ever Recommend Changes That They Think Would Make the Story Better?

As an author, your manuscript is often the product of countless hours of dedication and hard work. You might wonder if editors are more like collaborators or more like mere gatekeepers. Indeed, many authors hesitate to accept suggested edits, fearing that their unique vision might be lost in the process. However, there are instances where editors do take a proactive role in improving a story.

The Role of Editors in Story Enhancement

While the title suggests that editors primarily focus on recommending improvements, it is worth noting that the dynamics can be different depending on the publisher. In one notable case, Peter Benchley's novel Jaws provides a fascinating insight into the editorial feedback process.

Jaws, published in 1974, involved a significant partnership between the author and his publisher, Random House. Initially, Benchley submitted a version of the book where the marine biologist and the sheriff’s wife had an affair almost immediately. However, this scene was PG-rated, which led the publisher to recommend enhancements:

First Edit: The publisher suggested rewriting this scene to make it more passionate. Benchley obliged and revised the scene to fit their expectations. Subsequently, the publisher took it a step further, requesting that Benchley "jazz it up a bit more," something which he found challenging as it was out of his comfort zone.

Final Version: In the end, Benchley adhered to the publisher's suggestions, transforming the affair into a more explicit and fervent encounter. This change was crucial as it significantly contributed to the book's commercial success.

Interestingly, the film adaptation of Jaws by Steven Spielberg did not include this scene, despite it being a selling point for the book. This raises an intriguing question: how much should authors rely on publisher suggestions?

Author Agency: When to Take Edit Recommendations

With such examples in mind, it is clear that editors do advocate for changes that they believe will enhance the story. However, it is ultimately up to the author to decide whether to implement these recommendations. In the case of Jaws, while the publisher’s edits significantly improved the book's appeal to adult audiences, they excluded the scene from the movie because it was deemed inappropriate for the film's PG-13 rating.

The final decision lies with the author. If you are uncomfortable with a suggested change, you do not have to accept it. Many authors successfully navigate the editorial process by finding a publisher who aligns with their vision. You can always withdraw your manuscript and seek another publisher, thereby retaining full control over your creative work. This approach ensures that your unique voice and narrative are not compromised.

Conclusion: Balancing Feedback and Personal Vision

In the publishing world, collaboration between authors and editors is a delicate balance. While editors aim to enhance the story, authors must also prioritize their creative vision. The key is to find a path that respects both parties and ultimately delivers a compelling final product. Whether the publisher's advice comes from enhancing a passionate scene or reshaping a storyline, the ultimate decision remains with the author to maintain the integrity of their work.