A number of authors have likened the writing process to an artist working on canvas…you begin with a God-inspired vision, a story, a message, and your first tremulous thoughts give the vision substance. Slowly, often painfully, words fill the blankness of the page as the story unfolds. If, like an artist, the work itself is so personal, so fragile, what, then, is the role of the editor? The Essential Perspective Annie Dillard, author of An American Childhood, says that just as an artist covers his tracks as he begins to add layer upon layer of paint to canvas, so a writer needs to learn to “cover his tracks”–discarding what distracts from the vision and polishing the essentials. When the solitary experience of writing the manuscript is complete, the editor plays a key role by offering perspective, advice, and the time-tested ability to examine the vision from an outsider’s viewpoint. Stand close to a masterpiece and you see colors, brush strokes, marks of the artists’ tools; take several steps back, and the vision reveals itself. The Support System Allowing editorial professionals to come alongside you, the writer, provides critical feedback and offers you the chance to polish your manuscript to its literary best before it is seen by the intended audience. For those of you wondering exactly what happens when you hand your manuscript over to the editor, let me say that it must feel similar to when your newborn is whisked off by the nurse for his first bath-it must be done, but wait, I’m not ready to let go…what if it’s painful…when will I see him again?! Or the first time an artist reveals his latest painting-what if it is no good? Maybe it’s not ready to be seen…this is terrifying! Be assured that many authors begin this stage with trepidation, only to discover an editorial process that is both enjoyable and tremendously beneficial. In the end, the writer has gained a polished manuscript ready for publication, and along the way has mastered new skills for giving substance to the next story.