He prologue of an anthology It is a short presentation text that sets the stage for readers. This allows them to know in a few paragraphs what the work is about and why it is important or significant.
In essence, the prologue prepares the reader for the content and provides a context for the material. In addition, the prologue of an anthology familiarizes the reader with the author or authors.
For its part, an anthology is a compilation of literary works such as poems, plays, short stories or extracts.
You can find different categories of anthologies: collections of essays, anthologies of fiction, songs and movies. However, literary is the most common.
Who writes the prologue of an anthology?
First, some considerations should be made regarding the prologues and prefaces.
Some authors do not make distinctions between these two concepts. These point out that both are about the genesis, purposes, limitations and scope of the material. You can also include some thanks.
But others establish that there is a key difference: the prefaces are written by the author, while the forewords are written by another person.
In general, in the anthologies the author of the prologue is not the compiler. It is very common for this to extend that invitation to an experienced, qualified individual with outstanding credentials.
In this way, it helps to ground the work and guarantees its credibility. Even a quality prologue can help you market and sell your work.
The 4 recommendations to write the prologue of an anthology
When writing a prologue it is important not to follow a strict formula and leave space for creativity. However, it is very helpful to follow some general guidelines.
1- Be clear about the purpose of the book
It is vital to understand the purpose of this type of text: to show readers why they should read the book.
The prologue is then a sales tool. The work of the writer must be to establish the credibility of the author and the book.
2- Write a short text
It is not recommended that the text be very extensive. A short prologue will have better results.
As a general rule, they should occupy a page, or two at the most. And you have to make sure that you are free of spelling and grammar errors.
3- Give credibility to the compiler
One of the ways to give credibility to the compiler is to talk about his work. Mentioning this will add value to the book in front of the reader.
Also, the specific credentials of the compiler can be highlighted: studies, previous works, research, awards, and other elements.
4- Explain why the chosen texts
As for the work itself, and since it is a compilation, it is highly recommended to explain what the selected texts have in common.
You can also analyze the selection criteria or the contribution to the subject of each of the selected authors.
On the other hand, if it is a prologue for a new edition of a book, it is usual to talk about what is different in the current edition.
In addition, if it is a selection of classics, an analysis of the historical impact of these works can be made.
References
- DeGange, M. (2014, February 18). How to Write the Foreword of a Book. Retrieved on November 29, 2017, from splendorpublishing.com
- Literary devices, (s / f). Anthology Retrieved on November 29, 2017, from literarydevices.net
- Ripatrazone, (2015, May 05). Before You Start: Introductions, Forewords, and Prefaces. Retrieved on November 29, 2017, from themillions.com
- Kunz, J. C. (2016, April 14). Foreword Vs. Preface Vs. Introduction: A Guide For Self-Publishers. Retrieved on November 29, 2017, from kunzonpublishing.com
- Have, L. (2015, July 13). How to Write a Foreword. Retrieved on November 29, 2017, from lisatener.com
- Scribendi. (2016, November 07). Tips for writing an attention grabbing preface or foreword. Retrieved on November 29, 2017, from scribendi.com