forewords

Forewords are brief pieces of writing placed at the front of a book. They are typically written by someone other than the author, such as a scholar, practitioner, critic, or public figure, who is asked to introduce the work to readers. A foreword may explain why the book matters, place it in a broader context, and establish the author’s credibility or authority on the subject. It may also describe the foreword writer’s personal connection to the book or topic, or recount the genesis of the project.

The foreword differs from other front matter. A preface is usually written by the author and discusses the book’s aims, scope, and creation process. An introduction is part of the book’s own content and begins the work’s argument or narrative. Because a foreword is written by a third party, it typically appears before the main text and after any dedication or acknowledgments. The tone is generally courteous and evaluative, and the length varies with the work.

Reception and use: readers sometimes turn to the foreword to gauge the book’s relevance or credibility, though it is not a substitute for the author’s own voice. In some editions the foreword may be revised or omitted, and in others it may be used to contextualize revisions or subsequent editions. Forewords are common in nonfiction and literary fiction alike, and can help orient readers to difficult material or specialized topics.