Beta Reader


I think I need what is called a Beta reader. I am the world's worst editor. I look back over my published work and see error upon error, some grammar, some typos. I don't think a single story has slid by without something going to print with mistakes.

I study the grammar books. You laugh, but I do study the freaking grammar books. I read them on lunch breaks and tell myself I will master the art of writing flawless prose, but when I set to writing, my imagination takes over and my emotions soar, I think with my fingers and press send. It's a disease; I'm convinced.

I'm rubbing my genie lamp now. My three wishes are: Grant me the patience to proofread my work thoroughly prior to submitting it, the knowledge that will help me identify my mistakes and be able to correct them, and the strength to click delete when it needs to be clicked.

I know my wishes and the serenity prayer have a similar melody, maybe because my Mema had the Serenity prayer stuck on our refridgerator. I read it daily.

Oh yeah, almost forgot, amen.

Comments

Ethel Rohan said…
I love the Serenity Prayer. Have you ever heard Sinead O'Connor sing it? It hurts my heart. I'm sure it's on YouTube.

I want patience too :-)
March 9, 2010 at 10:55 PM
Ethel Rohan said…
I just Googled Sinead. No Serenity Prayer, but check out "Make me a Channel of your Peace." That'll more than do it :-)
March 9, 2010 at 10:58 PM
EC said…
You are not alone—I always see errors I want changed, and the worst part, is when you email the editor before your accepted piece posts—with the error—and they don't respond back, you think they've taken care of it, NOPE.

The last two pieces I've published contained an error! Learn and move on, I guess that's all we can do.

I also try to make myself to let pieces cool for another day, two, or week if possible, because that is when I notice the most errors. The longer you can let them cool, the better, but in this world, there is such a pressure to get things out, you gotta’ just ride with it sometimes.

PS - Congrats on your Howl entry, I'm in there too...and on the cover:)
March 9, 2010 at 11:33 PM
Kara McElhinny said…
Hey Paula!

I think we all do that. We read it over and over and over again in hopes to get it all right, but it's never possible without help of someone else because what makes sense in our heads, doesn't always mean that it makes sense outside our heads.

I'm in the throws of learning grammar, so I feel your pain. But I find that when I crit/beta another person's work, I know exactly what I'm doing. LOL!

If you really want a beta, I'll be happy to offer my assistance on anything you need. It not only helps you, but it helps me to. So we're both learning.

Just let me know!
Happy writing
Hinny
March 10, 2010 at 1:04 PM
Paula Ray said…
Thank you, Ethel. Great link!
March 11, 2010 at 2:20 AM
Paula Ray said…
Thanks, Erin. I'm glad to know I'm not alone.

You look great on the cover of Howl - Mark did a wonderful job altering your teeth and nails. You're a lovely model!
March 11, 2010 at 2:21 AM
Paula Ray said…
Hinny my hero!

I'd love for you to be my Beta Reader and I'll return the favor to the best of my ability.

Yay!
March 11, 2010 at 2:22 AM
Cate Gardner said…
Oh god, I hate reading anything of mine that's published - tons of mistakes in them and lines I need to fix.
March 11, 2010 at 2:52 AM
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