The conference is at capacity, with seven hundred editors registered. Among them will be many old friends with whom to reunite and see the marks the years have left on us. And there will be people to encounter for the first time, which is always stimulating.
Some of you at the conference will be numbered among my readers, and I hope that you will take advantage of the chance to speak with me. Writing is isolating, and it is always good to put a face and a voice and a personality to a reader.
Herewith my annual advice to first-time participants: Don't hang back. The grandees of editing will be there, and they are approachable. Everyone at ACES will be happy that you are there, happy to get to know you. Go to the sessions; go to the bar. These are your people, the people who love what you do and understand who you are. Don't be shy.
And, of course this conference will allow me to see once more my grandson, Julian Early McIntyre. Another opportunity not to be missed.
John, your writing has taught me much over the past 10 years. I'm four days into my post-employment life and coming to my first ACES. I'm not sure I have the temperament to begin a freelance career, but I hope to get a bit of understanding about it. I would enjoy meeting you but not at the expense of time with Julian. May he be the highlight of the conference for you!
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