At McSweeney's Internet Tendency, John Moe has "Notes on 'Sweet Child O' Mine' as Delivered to Axl Rose by His Editor" (my favorite 1990s pop song that starts strong and goes nowhere ... maybe the editor has a point).
Hi, Axl,
Just got your manuscript and demo for the song "Sweet Child O' (sic) Mine." I think we need to talk. As your editor, I am responsible for making your songs as cogent as possible, for helping them reach the high editorial standards your public has come to expect. With this one, I am certainly earning my keep. After several attempts to reach you by phone, I am sending along my notes. Please make appropriate fixes as soon as possible, at which point I can send them to copyediting and proofreading in time for your upcoming studio session.
She's got a smile that, it seems to me—Why equivocate? You weaken your point by framing this as a mere personal observation instead of a fact.
Reminds me of childhood memories—Redundant. You either have a memory or you're reminded of something. You're not reminded of a memory. Heavy-metal fans won't stand for such writing, my friend.
I think I've had the same editor on some projects. And I've always worked on being the Axl Rose of academia: shrieking, moody, loud, abrasive, and with a head full of crazy hair.
Posted by johndanseven at July 19, 2006 12:09 PM