ABSTRACT
Dialogic editing can be explored through multiple contexts, each of which offers distinctive coordinates that give unique texture to the process. One context is that of authors who work knowingly from a particular philosophical, theoretical, or theological ground as they carry out their authorial tasks. Authors who work from a faith perspective are situated within two traditions or narratives: one that is religiously informed and another rooted in a disciplinary or professional history. In this context, authors form a dialogic bridge between two traditions, bringing them into conversation with each other through the ongoing writing and editing process. By participating in both traditions, authors contribute to expanded horizons for each. This meeting of traditions offers the potential for incremental change in elements of each narrative, or elements of the reception and understanding of each narrative, made possible by emergent, creative possibilities brought forth by the authors’ professional practice, which is informed by both traditions. This chapter explores the theoretical ground for this approach to dialogic editing and offers Flannery O’Connor as an exemplar of a bridging author.
