I just returned from a writers’ conference where I
spent five days surrounded by spoken and written words.
One topic discussed was word count. Observing the
number of words an editor requires for an article is critical. If the word count is set
at four hundred words a written article submitted is five hundred, the writer needs
to edit in the best way possible without compromising the intended meaning.
I love my words. I selected them. Each time I delete,
rearrange, or choose a different word, it almost hurts. I chose the words with
care-or thought I did. Eliminating them makes me feel as if they weren’t chosen
for a part in the school play. But, cut I must. Once I do, I re-read the
article and yes, it is better with fewer, often more specific, words. And… I
find some words were unnecessary.
Two recent experiences reminded me how critical word
count is in our relationships. I was wounded by a comment in a conversation.
