If you’ve ever opened a book and seen a powerful quote or poetic line sitting alone at the top of the first page, you’ve already encountered an epigraph—even if you didn’t know what it was called. 📚
So, what is an epigraph, and why do writers use them?
In this article, we’ll explore what an epigraph is, how it works, why it matters in literature, and how you can use one effectively in essays, books, or creative writing. Plus, we’ll share famous examples from novels, poetry, and film to show how epigraphs add literary depth and meaning.
🧠 What Is an Epigraph?
An epigraph is a short quotation, phrase, or poem that appears at the beginning of a book, chapter, or essay. It sets the tone, introduces a central theme, or creates a connection between your work and another source.
📖 Think of it as a literary appetizer—it gives the reader a taste of what’s to come.
Epigraphs can come from:
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Famous quotes
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Religious texts
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Poetry
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Song lyrics
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Other books
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Even the author’s own words
📝 Epigraph Definition (In Simple Terms)
Epigraph (noun): A short quote placed at the beginning of a literary work or chapter to introduce its theme, tone, or message.
🎯 What’s the Purpose of an Epigraph?
Here are the key reasons writers use epigraphs:
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Set the tone: Create mood or emotion before the main text begins
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Introduce a theme: Provide clues about the topic or message
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Pay homage: Honor a writer, thinker, or movement
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Spark curiosity: Tease the reader with a powerful or mysterious quote
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Offer context: Link your story to real-world ideas or events
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Create contrast: Introduce irony or challenge expectations
💡 Pro Tip: An effective epigraph feels purposeful—not just a cool quote slapped on a page.
📚 Famous Epigraph Examples in Literature
Let’s look at how renowned authors have used epigraphs in their work:
1. T.S. Eliot – The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock
“S’io credesse che mia risposta fosse a persona che mai tornasse al mondo…”
(From Dante’s Inferno)
💬 This epigraph hints at secrecy and introspection—perfect for a poem about internal doubt.
2. Ernest Hemingway – The Sun Also Rises
“You are all a lost generation.” — Gertrude Stein
💬 Sets a somber, post-war tone and introduces the theme of disillusionment among young adults.
3. F. Scott Fitzgerald – The Great Gatsby
“Then wear the gold hat… bounce for her too…” — Thomas Parke D’Invilliers (a fictional poet created by Fitzgerald himself!)
💬 A clever self-reference that hints at the illusion, performance, and desire driving Gatsby’s character.
4. Stephen King – The Gunslinger
“The man in black fled across the desert, and the gunslinger followed.”
💬 Technically the first line, but it functions like an epigraph—instantly building mystery and urgency.
🎬 Epigraphs in Pop Culture
Epigraphs aren’t just for books—they show up in movies, TV shows, and even video games.
TV Example: Criminal Minds
Every episode begins with a quote from a philosopher, writer, or public figure—setting the emotional tone for the episode.
Film Example: Interstellar
“Do not go gentle into that good night…” — Dylan Thomas
Used to underscore themes of defiance, survival, and sacrifice.
🧾 How to Format an Epigraph (with MLA and APA Tips)
General Epigraph Formatting:
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Align it centered or right
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Use italics (optional, but common for poetry or quotes)
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Include quotation marks unless it’s a block quote
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Cite the author underneath, usually right-aligned
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Don’t include it in the main text’s word count (for essays)
Example:
“The only way to do great work is to love what you do.”
— Steve Jobs
MLA Citation (if required at end of essay):
Jobs, Steve. Commencement Address. Stanford University, 2005.
APA Citation:
Jobs, S. (2005). Stanford Commencement Address. Stanford University.
📌 Always check your instructor’s preferences if you’re including an epigraph in an academic paper.
✍️ How to Write an Epigraph for Your Own Work
Step 1: Pick a theme
What’s the core idea of your essay, story, or chapter?
Step 2: Find a quote that matches
Use books, poetry, speeches, song lyrics, or even your own writing.
Step 3: Keep it short and relevant
One to three lines max. Avoid overexplaining—let the quote speak for itself.
Step 4: Make it meaningful
Ask: Does this epigraph elevate the reader’s experience?
❌ When NOT to Use an Epigraph
While epigraphs are powerful, don’t force one in just for style points.
Avoid using one if:
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It’s longer than your introduction 😅
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It doesn’t clearly connect to your message
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You picked it just because it “sounds deep”
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It distracts more than it enhances
🎯 Rule of thumb: If you have to explain it too much, it’s probably not the right fit.
📌 Quick Summary: Epigraph Cheat Sheet
| Element | Details |
|---|---|
| What is it? | A short quote at the start of a text |
| Where is it placed? | Before the first chapter or introduction |
| Why use it? | To set tone, introduce theme, or intrigue the reader |
| Sources? | Books, poems, speeches, lyrics, religious texts |
| Format? | Short, centered, with author attribution |
💬 Final Thoughts
Whether you’re writing a short story, crafting an essay, or starting a novel, a well-chosen epigraph can instantly add depth, emotion, and meaning to your work. It’s a small touch that can leave a lasting impression.
So next time you’re facing a blank page, consider starting not with your first sentence—but with a quote that sets the stage. 🎭
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