How much rewriting is enough?

[RonBee]

The short answer to how much rewriting is enough:

until you get it right

Of course, nobody can tell how many rewrites that will be. The writer has to decide that for himself/herself.

[amackovjak]

Amma mentioned there are books that break down individual sentences and show a possible revision. Does anyone have the title of a book I could get that does that?
Thanks.

[konungursvia]

Originally Posted by RonBee

The short answer to how much rewriting is enough:

until you get it right

Of course, nobody can tell how many rewrites that will be. The writer has to decide that for himself/herself.

I agree. After spending ten years writing almost nothing but French essays and articles, and one French book, I wrote a book in my own language, English. It was easier, in a sense, but I was surprised how many times I printed a hard copy, and re-read it, only to find there were lots of changes I needed to make.

It took me about six or seven re-writes to get it right.

[danjean]

just do it time after time!

[BobK]

Bottom line: however many times you do it, that many times + 1.

b

[telaviv1]

In my experience one can keep on rewriting for ever, the trick is to do it effectively and to know when its not making any difference.

[vickylee]

My essay is always rewritten 5 or 6 times. I have to try my best!

[sarah bin]

Originally Posted by RonBee

The short answer to how much rewriting is enough:

until you get it right

Of course, nobody can tell how many rewrites that will be. The writer has to decide that for himself/herself.

yes ,u r right
I like ur comment

[youandcorey]

Trying to capture your thoughts on paper is like trying to grab a certain drop of water as the river rushes by. So a certain amout of re-writng is inevitable.

[damefrank]

Danielle Steele's latest novel had 7 mistakes within 4 pages. A well-known author with the best of editor's. Perhaps someone should have spent more time with it!

I went over my own book no less than 25 times and still find mistakes today. Re-writing means re-reading. As there are a thousand ways to 'do things right', same may be said for a good story.

I would certainly support no less than 3 re-writes, absolutely...without doubt.