Die teksversorger as spookskrywer : Christelike uitgewersmaatskappye as 'n gevallestudie

Abstract

This study has multi-faceted objectives in the sense that it attempts to accomplish a synthesis between theoretical linguistics and pragmatic practice. The first objective of the study is to indicate the nature of the role that the professional copy editor plays in the linguistic communication process, and in particular in the editorial process as it takes place within the framework of the publication of Christian texts. This copy editing process includes linguistic aspects, as well as structural, graphic and aesthetic aspects. Hopefully these aspects of the study will contribute to the promotion of copy editing as a scientific discipline and profession. The second objective of this study is to identify problematic areas in the editorial process, particularly where the screening of manuscripts and the process of copy editing are concerned. The guidelines proposed in this dissertation may function as a helpful reference source for writers as well as copy editors within the Christian publishing industry. Thirdly, this dissertation aims to promote the necessary professional recognition for the role of the copy editor within the publishing process, particularly for his/her contribution to the realisation of the completed product. It also argues for the recognition of a job title that reflects the complex nature of the skills involved in copy editing. This dissertation thus deals with the encompassing process of screening and copy-editing of manuscripts in a Christian publishing company, within the theoretical framework of text linguistics, language standards and language command. The study therefore emphasises not only the product, but also the (original writing) process. It is argued that attention to the process and problems of copy editing will accelerate and simplify the copy editing process, as well as the editorial and production processes. This would contribute to a publishing process that is more cost-effective, productive, streamlined and language-oriented. It is hoped that the validity of the research findings will not be limited to the internal set-up of a Christian publishing company, but will also be relevant to the labour industry at large. The underlying principle is that exceptional language skills have become a distinct career advantage.