- An epigraph is a quote or short text at the start of a book or chapter.
- It can be from another work, invented, or attributed in-world.
- It sets tone, hints at theme, or frames the story.
- Chapter epigraphs are common in some genres.
- Permissions may be needed to quote copyrighted text.
An epigraph is a short quotation or piece of text placed at the beginning of a book, section, or chapter. It can be a quote from another work, an invented text (like a fictional document or song from the story's world), or a line that sets the tone, hints at the theme, or frames what follows. Chapter epigraphs are a feature of some genres, especially fantasy and science fiction. Note that quoting copyrighted material may require permission.
Chapter i·Why it matters
Epigraphs are a craft and design choice that can enrich a book — setting mood, signaling theme, or building a world through invented in-story texts. Understanding what they do, and the practical wrinkle that quoting real copyrighted work may need permission, helps writers use them effectively and legally. They are a small device with real power to frame a reader's experience before the story even begins, and to add texture chapter by chapter.
Chapter ii·What to include
- A quote or short text at the start.
- Sources: another work, invented, or in-world.
- Purposes: tone, theme, framing.
- Chapter epigraphs in some genres.
- Permission considerations for copyrighted text.
- A framing device for the reader.
Chapter iii·Example
A fantasy author opens each chapter with an epigraph — invented excerpts from a fictional history of her world — that build the setting and hint at coming events. Her book's front matter carries a literary quote setting the theme. The epigraphs frame the reader's experience and enrich the world without intruding on the story.
Chapter iv·Related questions
WriteLoom keeps your front matter and chapter elements organized, so epigraphs are easy to manage across the book.
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