FILTH & GRAMMAR - FAQ
Q: What if I don’t want to be an editor? I’m an artist (or a writer). What’s in it for me?
A: Everything! The secrets of the red pen will benefit editors, writers, colorists, letterers…AND artists! If you’ve never worked with an editor, you’ll get first-hand info on what we expect—and also how to be discerning about your own work. Often when you self-publish, you are your own editor. I’ve come up with some strategies that work for me that I can’t wait to share. If you currently work with editors, I’ll cover areas that might be uncomfortable to address—how to get your editor's attention, when to expect a response and further clarification, the average timetables for creating and delivering script and art, and so much more.
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Q: How big is the class size, and will I get one-on-one attention?
A: We're going wide with the 4-week course, and I'll allow up to 100 participants. There will be time during each Saturday class to answer questions, but I'm also providing an optional hour for Q&As on Sundays to devote extra attention to any editing queries.
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Q: Do I need to bring anything to class?
A: Nope--just a keen interest in comics. Seriously, you don’t need a handbook or a comic in progress to make the most of the class. You'll receive adjunct materials that I’m pulling from FILTH & GRAMMAR: The Comic Book Editor’s (Secret) Handbook via PDF for future use, but no knowledge or deep research prior to class is necessary. In fact, I'd prefer if you don't get lost down a rabbit hole while taking the class. It's more important to come in with an open mind.​
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​Q: Why is the class called “Filth & Grammar?”
A: I came up with the title as a play on "Filth & Glamour," because comic book editing is a messy business. And “Search & Destroy (Tangents)” was already taken. Red pens are mandatory because editors reserve the right to throw ink at their creative talents, get their hands dirty, and slice-and-dice at every single stage of making comics. It's not over until the book is at the printer and someone yells, "Roll Press!” Kidding/Not Kidding.
Q: I’m 48 and I’m not sure what I want to be when I grow up. Is Comic Book Editing easy?
A: Like any job, it’s what you make of it. I wouldn’t call herding cats and juggling multiple plates and fire batons easy, but it’s extremely gratifying. In terms of a career path, it’s only recommended for the fearless. The class will take you through the many stages of making comics, from idea to great idea, hiring teams, editing scripts, art directing roughs, pencils, inks, lettering, and coloring—and cover art, logo design, budgeting, writing promotional copy, and convincing the sales and marketing departments to promote the hell out of the comics you believe in.
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Q: I want to take the class, but I've booked a vacation during the second week of June. Do you have makeup classes available?
A: While there are no makeup classes, I’ll be recording all the classes and Q&A sessions. I’ll make them available via a link that will be sent to each student on the day that follows each class. Access will be available for 60 days.
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Q: My brother says comics aren’t for girls. Will this class prove him wrong?
A: Is your brother a cranky octogenarian with hemorrhoids and a pathetic record collection? Of course comics are for everyone—especially women! We’ll cover how comics culture has changed over the years, and how careful curation in creative teams will continue to pave the way for gender equality and diversity.
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Q: If I take the class, will you read my pitch and be my editor?
A: Sorry, but I cannot accept any submissions during the class, and OFF REGISTER PRESS is not accepting submissions at this time.The purpose of the F&G class is to share my practical, 30+ years of editing experience. I hope to offer editing consultation at some point, but not until I complete my mission to demystify the comic book editor's job in full and ignite another comics revolution.
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