Into the Fire

I have to admit that this post is a reaction to, or inspired by, one of Dayle James Arceneaux’s posts over at his blog “Reflections”. He doesn’t happen to like “Prologues”, considering them a delay to or detour from the real story. Harvest House editor Nick Harrison doesn’t much care for them either.

For me, it depends on the particular prologue. Out of my seven novels, I used a prologue and an epilogue in my second novel. In my seventh novel I used a short prelude.

Much like in any event, backstory is captured in various ways. Sometimes a prologue indicates a past event which is responsible for, or affects, a present event you as a reader are about to be told. Other times the prologue gives you a present event and then takes you back to the past to embark upon the journey to get to the present. A prelude can be any number of things—a past or present reflection made by a main character, or even a peripheral but significant character whose insight has some bearing on the story to follow. I’m sure there are some writing rules concerning these particular facets of the craft, but, really, who cares? It’s up to the author’s discretion how he chooses to use these interesting techniques in telling a story.

I do think if there is a prologue, there definitely needs to be an epilogue. Just my opinion but I think if these particular choices are used in a story, the book should be a stand alone novel.

I like variety in style, so I have no qualms about these assorted tools of the trade. I will say they need to be effective, thoughtful, and either frame or bookend a story. If they don’t somehow contribute to the enhancement of the tale, then perhaps they are unnecessary. And by enhancement, I mean add to the drama or contribute to character amplification. In other words they need to matter.

As I always do, I will concede to subjectivity. With or without these prefaces and ending notes, a story is what it is. If any of the information offered in these stylistic choices is inconsequential, then chances are they will appear to be mere gimmicks.

Got any preferences or thoughts on all these possibilities?

Father, you above all know and create variety. Thank you for the beauty in all that you’ve created, for the vastness of your imagination. Help me as a writer to employ your techniques in my writing that it may bless you first and then others who might read the stories you’ve given me to write. In the Name of Jesus, Amen.