Being a ghostwriter has nothing to do with wearing a white sheet …

As a small part of my work, I work as a ghostwriter, writing up people’s memoirs or helping them with their work. Being the curious person that I am I must say it’s something I really enjoy. Every individual’s story is different and often full of colour. But the best part, after all the interviews, and writing and editing have taken place, is when you hand the finished product over and see the utter delight in the person’s face you are writing for.

Recently I have been working with a gentleman, let’s call him Liam, who would like his memory captured on the page. He has a terminal illness and is now reflecting over his life, his achievements, the people who have made a difference, either good or bad and ultimately is looking back at all he has accomplished. It may sound maudlin but it’s been quite a positive experience. Liam will leave a lasting legacy for his family to treasure and a lot of family information and connections have been recorded for prosperity.

Yet, I was recently made aware that there are some not so scrupulous individuals and companies out there that are more than happy to take the money for the job but not adequately come up with the goods. Some have had the audacity to ask for 50% royalties and their name on the book, this to my mind does not fit with the title ghostwriter and smacks more of self aggrandisement than ethical ghostwriting.

To me, the most important aspect of the job is following the brief, what the client wants and keeping to it. Ensuring that the writing reflects the client’s voice, not the writer's. That all the information given is accurate and there are no statements in the script that constitute defamation or are libelous. The amount a client may wish you to write can vary so it’s best to clarify that from the outset and set aside an appropriate and realistic amount of time aside to accommodate this. I would always advocate that if you wish to embark on this kind of work you ensure that a contract is in place setting out all the terms and conditions too.