Freelance editor, writer and performing artist Dean Nottle talks about what an editor really does. The term is thrown around loosely nowadays, and means many different things to many people, but the classic identity of 'the editor' still exists. It is the lynchpin. The link between the writer and the publisher, the supporter and the critic. Find out what makes a successful editor.
15 Dec 2004
Dean Nottle
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Writing and Publishing
Think of the word ‘editor’, and you may imagine someone in charge of the content of a newspaper, magazine or even Arts Hub. Or someone who assembles a film in collaboration with a director. Or, for the geeks among us, a computer program. But run the word past most published writers and they’ll have a very different idea in mind.
The editor is the link between writer and publisher; a go-between who has to find common ground between these two parties. And it’s an unsung role. Except perhaps on awards nights where most writers will lavish praise on their editor – after all, the book has been a success!
Dean Nottle trained as a drama and media studies teacher in Melbourne where he introduced a number of initiatives into the field of community and performance. He subsequently graduated from NIDA as both an actor and playwright. He has been involved in most elements of the performing arts for more than 30 years. As a freelance editor and dramaturg specialising in the performing arts, he has spent the past decade working closely with more than 100 playwrights and authors. At present he is editing a forthcoming publication on the craft of acting and writing travel articles.
