8 Comments
User's avatar
Will Taylor's avatar

"the writer who just finished the draft knows too much. The reader knows only what’s on the page. You need to become the reader" - loved this line!

Green tea's avatar

I needed this advice right now, thank you!!

Stephen R. Brown's avatar

I've stepped away from some drafts for years.

Damova's avatar

Yea me two, more than one

Gregory White's avatar

Good thoughts here. That space can really help you see with fresh eyes. How do peer reviews factor into this formula? Should you wait for those, too?

Damova's avatar

Yes, usually I take my pause between the second draft and editing, in that time the text rest closed in a drawer. Once I'm done with the editing I start sharing with peers. Not the best way if you're in a hurry but I still think novels should rest like fine wine

Damova's avatar

No no no, for me no sharing until first draft and a round of editing are done, so let's say I share ~3/4 months after the first draft is completed

Gregory White's avatar

Do you ever share with peers before that initial draft is done?