Writing is “like driving at night in the fog,” said E.L. Doctorow. For F. Scott Fitzgerald, it was “like swimming under water and holding your breath.” Others have used other metaphors: Annie Dillard likened it to building a house, by yourself, without blueprints; Stephen King to crossing the Atlantic in a bathtub (without a paddle).
Writing is hard, confusing, and—for academics—necessary. But it doesn’t have to be lonely. If you’re a scholar in any discipline who’d like some help getting that article or book into shape, I can offer assistance at all stages of the writing process:
- Brainstorming/conceptualization
- Making a plan
- Providing accountability and encouragement
- Substantive editing
- Copy editing
- Managing your blook blog (you can see an example here: razorwirewomen.wordpress.com)
- Research interview transcription
- CVs
I hold an MFA in creative writing and an MA in English Literature; I’ve provided substantive editing, heavy copyediting, and coaching to scholars in history, sociology, theatre, literature, Irish studies, ethnic studies, political science, international development, and other disciplines. I’ve copyedited for think-tanks, and I’ve published fiction, ad copy, and magazine articles.
My rates are reasonable, and I offer a sliding scale for graduate students and junior faculty. I am interested in working with scholars in any discipline. References are available on request.
philipchristman.com
When it came to writing I was crippled with self-doubt and shame for many years. I knew I could talk a good game, but writing was painful, slow and shared only when absolutely necessary. Working with Phil has significantly changed my perspective. He not only helped with grammar and syntax but also with distilling and clarifying main points. He understood my fear of writing and was always gentle with critique and generous with praise. I would never have met my deadlines and finished my book without Phil’s editorial assistance.—Rachael Murphey-Brown, UNC-Chapel Hill
Phil Christman brings patience, good humor, and excellent knowledge of writing to his consultation practice. His communication skills and constructive suggestions will help writers sharpen their focus and get projects on track.—Karen O’Brien, UNC-Chapel Hill
