In the World of Creativity and Craft: Insights from Author and Editor Ekta Garg

**Introduction**

Welcome to another enlightening edition of “Book Lover’s Companion,” where we dive deep into the world of books, authors, and the craft of writing. In this episode, our host Edith engages in an insightful conversation with returning guest, Ekta Garg. Ekta is not only an accomplished author but also an editor and book reviewer. In their discussion, they explore the nuances of writing, the editing process, and the evolving landscape of publishing, providing invaluable guidance for writers, both new and seasoned.

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**The Vital Role of Editing**

One of the major themes of this conversation is the role of editing in the writing process. Ekta Garg elaborates on her approach as an editor, emphasizing the importance of manuscript assessments which she prefers over line editing. She explains how these assessments help writers identify issues like character development, plot tension, and more, which are often overlooked due to the author’s closeness to their work.

Ekta advises authors to tackle their drafts independently several times before seeking professional editorial assistance. Not only does this make the editing process more efficient, but it also helps authors save resources. As she put it, reputable editors are not cheap, and it’s crucial that authors ensure they’re fully prepared and utilizing professional editing services effectively.

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**Crafting Your Unique Voice and Embracing Flexibility**

The discussion takes an intriguing turn when it touches on the development of an author’s unique voice. While acknowledging that voice is an abstract concept, Ekta attests to its importance, noting that an author’s voice remains distinct across different genres. She encourages writers not to worry about cultivating this voice too early in their careers—it will naturally develop with experience and dedication to the craft.

Ekta also sees great value in authors experimenting with various writing styles, such as flash fiction or poetry, to break out of long-form storytelling habits and view their writing through a fresh lens.

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**Reading: The Key to Writing Excellence**

Another cornerstone of Ekta’s advice is the emphasis on reading widely. She echoes the sentiment of many literary veterans that reading across genres and forms enriches a writer’s craft. Through reading, writers can garner a wide array of perspectives and gain a deeper understanding of storytelling mechanisms—crucial for improving their writing.

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**On The Controversy and Impact of AI in Writing**

In a world increasingly reliant on technology, the debate around AI’s place in writing is unavoidable. Ekta strongly opposes the use of AI in creative writing, comparing it to receiving a meal receipt without experiencing the meal itself. She believes that the journey of writing is just as important as the finalized product and warns about AI’s potential to erode the creative process. However, she stresses the importance of staying informed about AI for meaningful dialogue and sound argumentation against its potential misuse in literature.

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**Perseverance in Publishing**

Ekta concludes with thoughts on the publishing industry’s arduous nature. She empathizes with the challenges many writers face in getting published, urging them not to give up. Citing persistence as more critical than innate talent, she calls upon writers to engage with their communities, both online and in person, and to continue honing their craft.

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**Conclusion**

The conversation with Ekta Garg is a treasure trove of wisdom for writers at all stages of their careers. From the necessity of editing and the art of crafting a unique voice to the importance of continuous reading and the challenges posed by AI, this dialogue offers encouragement and practical advice. As Edith rightly points out, “don’t give up,” for in writing lies the power to live a thousand lives while crafting even more.

Dive into this episode, embrace the insights shared, and let your writing journey be one of creativity, resilience, and fulfillment.

Yours sincerely

M. Maurice