What Makes a Good Prologue: The Ultimate Guide

TLDRLearn what separates good prologues from bad ones and how to write an effective prologue for your story.

Key insights

Prologues can set the tone and establish the genre of your story.

💡A good prologue conveys necessary information without overwhelming the reader.

📚Prologues can introduce or reintroduce important characters who play a role in the story.

🔮Prologues should not overstay their welcome and should be concise.

👥Prologues can establish the stakes and create anticipation for the main story.

Q&A

Are prologues necessary in every story?

No, prologues are not necessary in every story. It depends on the narrative structure and the specific needs of your story.

How long should a prologue be?

A prologue should be concise and not overstay its welcome. It should be long enough to establish the necessary information or set the tone, but not too lengthy to bore the reader.

Should a prologue be written in a different style or voice?

It is not necessary, but a prologue can have a distinct style or voice if it serves the purpose of the story. However, it should still be consistent with the overall tone and style of the rest of the narrative.

Can prologues be used in different genres?

Yes, prologues can be used in a variety of genres as long as they serve a purpose in the story. However, the specific elements and focus of the prologue may vary depending on the genre.

How can I ensure my prologue is engaging?

To make your prologue engaging, focus on creating an intriguing opening scene, introducing conflict or mystery, and connecting it to the main story. Hooking the reader's interest from the start is key.

Timestamped Summary

00:00Introduction to the importance of prologues and dispelling the notion that they are always bad.

06:53Differentiating between good and bad prologues based on their ability to set the tone, establish the genre, convey necessary information, introduce characters, and avoid being boring.

10:45Examining bad prologues in movies and contrasting them with well-executed prologues.

06:51Discussing common questions about prologues, including their necessity, ideal length, writing style, genre compatibility, and tips for engagement.