How do you write an epilogue in a story?

How To Write an Epilogue in 3 Steps
  1. Step 1: Set Your Epilogue in The Future. Provide space between the end of your novel and the Epilogue. …
  2. Step 2: Set Up a Future Narrative. An Epilogue can set the scene for a sequel. …
  3. Step 3: Don’t Forget Your Hero.

What is included in an epilogue?

In fiction writing, an epilogue is a literary device that functions as a supplemental, but separate, part of the main story. It is often used to reveal the fates of the characters in a story and wrap up any loose ends.

What is an epilogue in literature?

In the former, the epilogue is the conclusion or final part that serves typically to round out or complete the design of the work. In this context it is sometimes also called an afterword.

How do you start an epilogue?

You should start the epilogue with a clear purpose in mind, as this will ensure that the epilogue feels intentional and full of meaning. Decide what the main purpose for your epilogue will be, and write with that purpose in mind. Ask yourself what you want to explore in the epilogue.

What should an epilogue never do?

Epilogues often reveal the fates of the characters and wrap up any loose ends. An epilogue always takes place in the future, after the main events of your story have happened. It generally comes after the final chapter. However, an epilogue should not replace a denouement or falling action after your story’s climax.

How long are epilogues usually?

The length of a prologue depends on the nature of the story, but it’s best to keep it trim. One to five pages should suffice.

Should an epilogue be in the table of contents?

Technically, the epilogue is counted as a chapter. It shows up in the table of contents (in those books that have them) and, when present, is considered a part of the narrative.

Can an epilogue have chapters?

They can be used to hint at a sequel or wrap up all the loose ends. They can occur at a significant period of time after the main plot has ended. In some cases, the epilogue is used to allow the main character a chance to “speak freely”. Now, my understanding is that in most cases the epilogue is at most one chapter.

Can a book have an epilogue without a prologue?

You don’t always need both a prologue and an epilogue.

Many writers think that if their book has a prologue, it must be balanced with an epilogue, or vice versa. But that isn’t the case at all! You can have only a prologue or only an epilogue.

How is an epilogue different from a prologue?

A prologue is an independent front matter of the novel, which gives an opening hint to the reader, as to what the story is all about. On the contrary, an epilogue implies a literary device, which is an additional and independent part of the literary work, which concludes the story.

What is the difference between an epilogue and a conclusion?

Conclusion. Epilogues and conclusions function the same, but conclusions tend to be found in nonfiction books, usually accompanied by an introduction chapter at the start of the book, whereas epilogues tend to be found in novels and memoirs.

How do you write a prologue and an epilogue?

  1. Use prologues to give context for your world. …
  2. Include prologues to unify story elements. …
  3. Add history using wiki-like prologues. …
  4. Describe significant background events. …
  5. Write epilogues that hint at sequels. …
  6. Add afterwords showing affect and change. …
  7. 14 replies on “Prologues and epilogues: Writing prefaces and after chapters”

What comes between prologue and epilogue?

The part of a book that comes between the prologue and the epilogue is normally called “the story“!

Can you have an epilogue in a short story?

Sometimes, the end of your story needs a little something extra – a final section separate from the story proper and usually set after the narrative’s natural conclusion. This is an epilogue. Epilogues can be useful, but only if they enrich your story or add some value that exists beyond the main storyline.

Do you need an epilogue?

The epilogue explains what happens to your characters after the main body of your book. Just like prologues, epilogues aren’t always necessary — and adding one might spoil a great story that should have ended sooner.

What is the synonym of epilogue?

nounmatter at end of document. addendum. afterword. appendix. end matter.

Can a book have an epilogue without a prologue?

Yes. There is no link between the presence of prologue and epilogue.

Are epilogues only for fiction?

There are three main ways to close a manuscript when you have something to say after the last chapter: An epilogue: An epilogue appears in fiction. An afterword: An afterword can be used for fiction and non-fiction.