An
epilogue or
epilog (from
Greek ἐπίλογος
epílogos, "conclusion" from ἐπί- "in addition" and λέγειν légein, "to say") is a piece of writing at the end of a work of literature, usually used to bring closure to the work. It is presented from the perspective of within the story. When the author steps in and speaks indirectly to the reader, that is more properly considered an
afterword. The opposite is a
prologue—a piece of writing at the
beginning of a work of literature or drama, usually used to open the story and capture interest.