Prologues

[Denem]

I have read in a couple of places that manuscripts more often than not will be rejected on the sole reason that they begin with a prologue. I am hoping the esteemed experts at DWT (and other forum members) can tell me why there is such disdain for all things prologue.

[Matt9537]

I don't know for sure...but I presume it could be to do with the fact a prologue isn't needed. You must be able to communicate 'how it all begun' within your story. The prologue should be embedded within your story.

I always treat prologues myself as being something that is there in case the reader wants to read but only has a little benefit on the readers understanding of the work.

I could not imagine why, myself, one would wish to include a prologue. The only exception, would be fantasy where stories are much more complex...

[TokeBernbole]

I'd say it depends on the context. I have read books where the prologue was helpful, and others where it was pointless. So far in my writing (not that that's saying much atm) I have not wanted a prologue for the simple fact I don't want the reader knowing too much at first. Having a bit of mystery and letting them figure things out seems better in my case. However, I have a future project planned that will have a prologue of sorts. Its a sci fi about Earth in the future, and my prologue will describes actions happening before humanity is even included and leading up to when they do become included, then skipping ahead to the characters and their current situations. (Sorry if that sounds confusing) As far as if publishers will reject based on that, I suppose it depends on the person who is reading it! If it's too long or uninteresting I'm sure they will reject it, but if it catches their interest, then perhaps they will continue reading.

[Nohbody]

Our findings conclude that experts suggest that studies have found that over 64 percent of readers between the ages of 15 and 34 skip prologues. Or something.

[Slayer]

I'm writing in the sci-fi/fantasy realm where I'm using a prologue to set the stage for the rest of the story. Sometimes they're necessary; sometimes they're a waste.