If you’ve ever opened a novel to find a short quote, poem excerpt, or line of dialogue printed before the first chapter, you’ve encountered an epigraph. An epigraph isn’t just decorative, it’s a subtle narrative tool that can set the tone, hint at themes, and deepen your reader’s engagement before the story even begins.
Definition of an Epigraph
An epigraph is a short quotation or phrase placed at the beginning of a book, a chapter, or a section. It’s usually italicized or set apart from the main text, and it often comes with an attribution to its source.
Epigraphs can come from:
- Famous literary works
- Religious texts
- Song lyrics
- Proverbs or sayings
- Original lines written by the author
- Imaginary sources (fictional quotes that exist only in the story’s universe)
The Purpose of an Epigraph
Although it might seem like a flourish, an epigraph is more than just a nice quote. Here are some reasons an author might include one:
1. Setting the Tone
An epigraph can establish mood immediately. A line from Emily Dickinson might prepare readers for a contemplative, lyrical story, while a sharp quip from Oscar Wilde could prime them for wit and satire.
2. Hinting at Themes
Epigraphs can subtly reveal what the story will wrestle with (love, death, revenge, fate) without directly stating it. This creates intrigue and invites the reader to connect dots later.
3. Foreshadowing
Sometimes an epigraph contains a clue that only makes sense after the reader has finished the book. This adds a layer of satisfaction on a reread.
4. Adding Authenticity
Historical fiction often uses real historical quotes to ground the reader in a particular era or mindset.
5. Creating Contrast
A gentle, optimistic epigraph at the start of a tragic novel can create ironic tension.
Examples of Epigraphs in Literature
Without quoting copyrighted works directly, here are paraphrased examples of how epigraphs function:
-
Mystery Novel: An adapted line from an ancient proverb about truth coming to light hints that the main plot will involve long-buried secrets.
-
Dystopian Fiction: A fictional government slogan written as if from the story’s oppressive regime immerses the reader instantly in the world’s ideology.
-
Romance: A snippet of a love poem primes readers for passion, longing, and emotional stakes.
Choosing the Right Epigraph
When selecting an epigraph for your work:
-
Keep It Short
Most epigraphs are one to three sentences long. Too much text can overwhelm the reader before the story starts.
-
Make It Relevant
Even if the connection is symbolic, it should resonate with the central themes or mood of your work.
-
Check Copyright
Quotes from works published before 1929 (as of 2025) are generally public domain, but modern works often require permission.
-
Consider Tone Alignment
A humorous quote before a dark, tragic story can work for irony but make sure the contrast is intentional, not jarring.
-
Use Original or In-World Sources
Writing your own epigraph or attributing it to a fictional book or character can be just as impactful as using a famous line. It works particularly well in dystopian fictions with oppressive regimes or religions.
Placement and Formatting
Where It Goes: Epigraphs usually appear after the title page but before the first chapter. Some authors also use them at the start of individual chapters.
Formatting: Italics are common, with the attribution (author’s name, source title) below, often right-aligned.
Multiple Epigraphs: Some books feature two or three epigraphs to show multiple thematic angles.
Should You Use an Epigraph?
You don’t need an epigraph for your book to feel complete. Many bestselling novels skip them entirely. However, if your story contains a core theme or emotional current you want readers to sense right away, an epigraph can be a powerful touch.
Ask yourself:
- Does it add depth or atmosphere?
- Will it make more sense (or gain more power) after the reader finishes the book?
- Is it intriguing enough to make the reader want to turn the page?
PLOT STRUCTURE WORKBOOK
