Prologue in Your Novel: When, Why, and How

When it comes to novel writing, the freedom to do whatever you want with your story is vast. However, the inclusion of a prologue often brings with it a mix of opinions. Some argue against its use, especially when it's used to dump unnecessary information, while others advocate for a prologue when it serves a specific purpose. This article explores when a prologue should be included, the reasons for its use, and how to do it effectively.

Why Not Include a Prologue?

The primary critique of prologues is that they often introduce backstories in a way that’s not compelling or relevant to the story at hand. For instance, detailing the history of the Babblington Family Tree, when readers mostly want an engaging story, can easily frustrate and disengage them. To maintain reader interest right from the start, it’s often suggested to start in medias res (in the middle) and weave in necessary background information as the story progresses, rather than providing it abruptly in a prologue.

Prologue as an Effective Tool

Not all prologues are detrimental. They can serve as a powerful tool, especially in mysteries and thrillers, by providing insights or setting a particular tone. For example, in the prologue of a thriller, you might have the story narrated from the villain's perspective, or you might introduce a series of missing persons or bones found, which subtly hints at the story to come. These prologues, typically short and to the point, can intrigue the reader and draw them into the narrative more deeply.

A prologue can also be used to establish the context of a fictional world. However, if the aim is merely to provide an extensive history or in-depth explanation of the background, it can turn into an information dump. Similar to how video games like Resident Evil 3 start with immediate action (throwing Jill Valentine into the zombie-filled street), novels should do the same. The prologue should add to the story, not replace it.

Examples and Styles

The approach to using a prologue can be diverse. Science fiction author Isaac Asimov, for example, would prefer to immerse the reader directly into the action, presenting the plot as it unfolds. His stories typically don't include lengthy backstories but rather focus on the current events and movements, making the reader want to discover more. In contrast, Frank Herbert's Dune prologue is an entire novel within the novel, detailing the political and sociological background. It was so extensive that many readers found it difficult to wade through, leading some to prefer the extended version of the prologue that made the movie adaptation longer than a typical film.

Ultimately, the choice of whether to include a prologue, and how to do it, is a personal and artistic decision. The key is to know your audience and what they might value in your story. Starting with a prologue can be a stylistic choice that resonates with certain readers, while others might prefer to be thrown into the action immediately. It's important to remember that your prologue should not obstruct the story but rather enhance it.

Conclusion

Deciding on whether to include a prologue in your novel and how to implement it effectively is a matter of balance and purpose. When done well, a prologue can set the stage for a rich and engaging narrative, drawing readers into a world that's both familiar and new. Whether you choose to start with a prologue or immerse your readers directly in the action, what matters most is your ability to captivate your audience and guide them through your story in a way that aligns with your writing style and their preferences. Find your unique voice, and your audience will find you.