I was asked recently if I thought prologues were a good idea, in general and in specific. My answer, helpfully enough - was 'it depends'.
So what does it depend upon?
A prologue is a great way to get your reader straight in to the middle of the story without having to set a scene or explain the events. Readers are trained to mentally file a prologue until it makes sense, but the flavour lingers on throughout their reading of the rest of the book.
What makes a bad prologue?
Personally, I have an intense dislike of serial killer prologues, where the reader is thrust into the mind of a deranged killer and his gruesome thoughts (and love for his mum), and then ping, we're back in the real world again.
A prologue that doesn't relate to the rest of the book, or get explained, is also a waste of time.
Does your novel have a prologue? What do you want your prologue to achieve?
(Editorial Consultant)
As a reader I always look forward to a well crafted prologue. Not interested in serial killers, or their mums!!
I had a prologue which I held on to for a year. Even though I knew it was rubbish, I just wouldn't let go, being too lazy to explain bits of my world as I went along. I started my fourth draft a month ago, and finally cut it out! It was painful, but it had to be done. Sometimes prologues really work, but other times they're unnecessary, and can just look like a gimmick to get the reader to give you a chance (like my one), when really, if the story is good and has good writing, it will keep the reader hooked anyway.
:)
Brilliant - this is precisely why I always have a gander at this site everyday - highly informative and (chuckles) hilarious! "...thrust into the mind of a deranged killer and his gruesome thoughts (and love for his mum),..."
Sweet :)
Thanks, as always, Cressida.