Prologue: Yay or Nay?

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Having a prologue is sort of like beginning your story twice. I have two stories I'm working on that I'm tempted to use a prologue. I feel the need to describe what happened before hand, but don't want to drag in on too long by making it part of the story. I just want to mention it, then move on to present day.

Have you used a prologue? Care to share your thoughts, pros or cons?

Comments

Sherilyn Nicole said…
I would say that as long as it's not too long then it's okay to have a prologue. Sometimes it's better because instead of having to flash back or have a detailed description you can tell it like it's happening right then. I would just make sure that you don't really need to start there. Having too much in the prologue or in flashback can mean that you are actually starting your book in the wrong place... Or that's what I think : ) Hope I helped.
July 26, 2010 at 3:17 PM
Kathi Oram Peterson said…
I agree to keep it short. Some suspense novels sometimes have a prologue in the villain's pov. They are short and really add tension. Good luck!
July 26, 2010 at 9:43 PM
Jennifer Shirk said…
I generally don't like prologues BUT... I have read two where I really thought it was done great and really added to the story where i couldn't imagine not doing one for it.So I guess it really depends how it's done and if it serves a purpose.
Good luck!
July 26, 2010 at 10:17 PM
Carolyn V. said…
I've heard both yes and no. But I think I've heard that you can use them only if necessary. I hope it works out! =)
July 26, 2010 at 11:57 PM
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