Quote:
Originally Posted by crich70
I think it does make some sense though. I've read a # of books that say write the story then set it aside for a while before you go back to edit it. The reason being, like you said, that the writer is too close to the work to see any flaws in it at first. Setting it aside for a little while allows you to see the project with fresh eyes so that you are less likely to miss any flaws the 1st draft has, and that I'm pretty sure applies to both fiction and non-fiction.
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Every book I write gets at least two hibernation periods if not three. You'll be stunned how much more clearly you see your work when you spend six-eight weeks doing something else.
Just the grammar alone will begin to jump out at you. (Often along the lines of, 'What the hell was I thinking, putting a comma there?')
Story holes are harder to see, even with the down time, so I suggest a beta reader or two for that. But you've got a much better chance of seeing them if you give yourself time off, than if you go straight through.