How to Choose The Right Editor
(And Avoid the Wrong One)
A guide for poets navigating grief, creativity, and the tender process of editing.
Whether you’re self-publishing, pursuing a traditional publishing deal, or exploring a hybrid model, having your poetry collection professionally edited is an essential step. The process can feel overwhelming, but choosing wisely makes all the difference.
Having collaborated with editors across a range of genres—children’s literature, anthologies, nonfiction, and poetry—I’ve come to deeply appreciate how transformative the right editorial partnership can be. A thoughtful editor brings out the best in a manuscript with care and sensitivity, while a mismatch—no matter how experienced—can unintentionally dilute the work’s emotional resonance.
I recently finished writing a poetry collection after the death of my father. The poems in this book are deeply personal and close to my heart. I was writing from such a vulnerable place, and I had to be especially careful in choosing who would edit it.
When the work is this intimate, finding the right editor isn’t just important—it’s essential. Writing these poems helped me process what felt unholdable, gave shape to my sorrow, and allowed me to turn grief into something meaningful and true.
All poetry requires a unique editorial approach—one that respects rhythm, emotion, and intentionality. It’s not just about credentials; it’s about trust. The right editor understands this. They polish without erasing, refine without reshaping, and enhance without altering the poem’s essence.
So, how do you pick the right editor for your poetry collection?
If you’d like guidance in finding, choosing, and collaborating with an editor who honours your voice, I invite you to continue reading.
Here’s what we’ll explore:
Why hiring an editor for your poetry collection matters—especially when the work is deeply personal
The different types of editing support available (proofreading, copy editing, developmental editing, coaching)
How to find editors who truly understand poetry’s rhythm and vulnerability
What to consider when choosing an editor who aligns with your creative voice
Where to find editors
What editing typically costs—and how to see it as a meaningful investment
My personal experience navigating the editing process
🌿 To continue reading—and receive the full guide, including practical tools and personal reflections—I invite you to become a paid subscriber.
Your support helps me create honest, heart-led writing for writers, artists, and those navigating creative transformation.