Need help with writing?
Perhaps it's a job application, a term paper, a Ph.D. thesis, or a memoir. You know what you want to say, but not exactly how to say it. Or you've said it well, but want to say it even better.
Writing with clarity and grace
Writing is not easy, but the craft of writing can be learned. Whether you're a student, businessperson, amateur, or professional, I can help you become a better writer.
Here's how I work
You give me a written draft of any length. I carefully edit it for grammar and punctuation, while also offering suggestions about clarity, organization, and content. Then we sit down and go over the work together, in person or by phone. I treat you gently, but practice tough love on the writing itself. Together we tailor the editing process to fit your needs.
My qualifications
- Over 20 years experience as writer/editor
- Master's Degree in Creative Writing
- Articles published in Isthmus, In Business, etc.
- Consultant to non-profit corporations
- Writing coach
- Tutor at Madison Area Technical College Writing Center
- Co-author of Charles Munch—Dreaming in Color: Paintings 1971–2006
- Prize-winning songwriter (see richardelymusic.com)
A few testimonials
When I first brought my manuscript to Richard, I thought he'd be correcting spelling and grammatical errors and spotting logical inconsistencies (dates, names, times, etc.). All of which he did. But his real gift was to attune to the work's inner song. He not only let me know when my writing was out of tune or in the wrong key or a riff was misplaced, he heard what was unwritten and helped me write it. My manuscript is now with an agent and doing the rounds with New York publishers, thanks in no small part to Richard's 'ear.'—Willow Harth, author of My Summer with Elvis: Spiritual Teachings from the King
Richard is an excellent editor. I trust him to be honest and kind, and to help me say exactly what I want to say.—Stuart Stotts, author of Books in a Box: Lutie Stearns and the Traveling Libraries of Wisconsin and other books
To contact Richard Ely
(608) 249-2863
richardely2003
@
yahoo.com
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