eessõna

Eessõna is the foreword or preface of a book or other publication in Estonian literature. The word comes from ees- meaning “before” and sõna meaning “word,” literally “the word before.” The eessõna may be written by the author or by another person, such as a supervisor, mentor, editor, or expert, and it serves to introduce the work to readers.

The eessõna usually explains the motivation and context for the work, describes how the project came about, and outlines its scope and intended audience. It may discuss the author’s approach, methods, or sources, and it often acknowledges people and institutions that contributed to the project. In some cases it reflects on the broader significance of the work within a field or discipline.

Placement and relation to other parts: the eessõna is placed before the main text, commonly after the title page and any dedication or permissions pages, and before the table of contents, though practices vary. The eessõna is distinct from the sissejuhatus (introduction), which appears within the work and presents its aims, structure, and key questions to the reader.

Usage: eessõna is common in Estonian academic, reference, and literary works, especially in printed books. In modern publishing it may be omitted in shorter works or in some self-published editions. Overall, the eessõna serves to situate the reader and provide context for the ensuing text.