For a publication, a literary editor reads and evaluates fiction, such as short stories, or non-fiction, such as reviews. He or she may also contribute to the publication writing articles and preparing works other authors for publication. Book publishers, magazines, and newspapers hire literary editors. They deal with literary or academic works rather than mainstream, commercial pieces. The specific responsibilities of a literary editor vary depending on the publication and whether the work is done full-time or on a freelance basis.
As consultants, freelance literary editors usually work for a variety of publications. They may assist in the planning of the publication’s content as well as the rewriting of some of the contributors’ contributions. A freelance literary editor may focus on a particular field, such as working exclusively for academic presses. He or she may also contribute original material to one or more publications.
Literary editors ensure that all pieces adhere to the magazine, newspaper, or book publisher’s content and style guidelines. Many book editors spend a significant amount of time reviewing proposals and communicating with authors. Newspaper literary editors typically work with reviewers and prepare their work for weekend or other supplement sections. Literary magazine editors usually accept stories from writers after ensuring that the length, style, and content meet the publication’s standards.
While some literary editors accept pitches from authors, such as requests to review a specific book, others may assign work. A literary editor frequently communicates with a group of writers who contribute to the publication on a regular basis via email or phone. Ads are commonly placed literary editors to encourage new writers to submit work to the publication. They make sure that writers have access to guidelines such as word count minimums and maximums, as well as specific style requirements.
Proofreading and copy editing are common responsibilities for literary editors. Literary editors must read all materials sent writers carefully in order to revise each piece to fit the format and style of the publication. In most cases, the editor corrects spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors, as well as shortening sentences or paragraphs to make them more clear and concise for the reader. Story continuity is also checked literary editors. For example, he or she will need to keep an eye out for inconsistencies like a character who is allergic to shellfish in one chapter but orders a shrimp dinner later in the book.