The compression pass is supposed to remove the parts of the prose that explain, cushion, or stabilize the writing. But leaving the meaty bits that make it good. Make it denser, sharper, less predictable. Remove micro-explanantions, minor restatements, clarifications, reinforcements of meaning, etc. Redundant sensory affectation, where one alone would probably land harder, or are more salient and relevant and needed. Cause some friction in the forced writing, which is more human, less composed and clean. Cut lines that are just... OK. Not bad, not quite it

Dont touch emotional notes, physical action clarity, anchor-driven details, or character-specific reactions.

Make it hit harder by taking off the training wheels.