How to Edit Your Novel: When Your Characters Start Editing You

Editing a novel is a daunting task, but it’s also an opportunity to refine your story, sharpen your prose, and ensure your characters resonate with readers. However, what happens when your characters seem to take over the editing process? Here’s a comprehensive guide to editing your novel, with a twist of unpredictability.
1. Start with a Macro Edit: The Big Picture
Before diving into sentence-level edits, focus on the structure and flow of your story. Ask yourself:
- Does the plot make sense? Are there any gaping holes or inconsistencies?
- Are the character arcs satisfying and believable?
- Does the pacing keep readers engaged, or are there sections that drag?
Sometimes, your characters might “whisper” suggestions during this phase. If your protagonist insists on a different ending, consider it—they might know themselves better than you do.
2. Tackle the Micro Edit: The Devil in the Details
Once the big-picture issues are resolved, zoom in on the finer details:
- Grammar and Syntax: Ensure your sentences are clear and grammatically correct.
- Word Choice: Replace overused or vague words with more precise alternatives.
- Dialogue: Make sure each character’s voice is distinct and authentic. If your antagonist suddenly starts speaking like a poet, maybe they’re trying to tell you something.
3. Kill Your Darlings: Be Ruthless
This is where you cut unnecessary scenes, characters, or lines—no matter how much you love them. If a scene doesn’t advance the plot or develop a character, it might need to go. But beware: your characters might stage a protest. If your sidekick refuses to be deleted, perhaps they deserve a spin-off instead.
4. Seek Feedback: Let Others Be Your Mirror
Share your manuscript with beta readers, writing groups, or editors. Fresh eyes can catch issues you’ve overlooked. However, if your beta readers start channeling your characters’ opinions, it might be time to question your sanity—or your characters’ persistence.
5. Read Aloud: Hear Your Story
Reading your work aloud helps you catch awkward phrasing, repetitive words, and unnatural dialogue. If your characters start reading their lines back to you, congratulations—you’ve achieved peak writer-character symbiosis.
6. Polish Until It Shines: The Final Pass
This is your last chance to perfect your manuscript. Check for typos, formatting issues, and any lingering inconsistencies. If your characters start suggesting font changes or margin adjustments, remind them gently that they’re fictional.
7. Embrace the Chaos: When Characters Take Over
Sometimes, your characters might hijack the editing process. They might demand rewrites, argue with your plot decisions, or even refuse to cooperate. In these moments, remember: they’re a product of your imagination, but they also have a life of their own. Listen to them—they might just improve your story.
FAQs
Q: What if my characters keep changing their personalities during edits?
A: This could indicate inconsistent character development. Revisit their backstories and motivations to ensure they remain true to themselves—unless, of course, they’re intentionally evolving.
Q: How do I know when to stop editing?
A: When further changes no longer improve the story, it’s time to stop. Perfection is unattainable, and over-editing can strip your work of its soul.
Q: What if my characters start editing other people’s novels?
A: This is a rare but serious condition known as “Fictional Character Overreach.” Seek immediate literary counseling.
Editing your novel is a journey, and sometimes your characters will be your co-pilots. Embrace the chaos, trust your instincts, and remember: the best stories are often the ones that surprise even their creators.