Foreword, Preface, Epilogue

When I searched agents and submission packet requirements I came across an interesting notation more than once. It goes without saying we must spell check religiously before submitting any material for publication but the notation I refer to use the use of the word Foreword. This important word, the first word seen when reviewing your manuscript is often misspelled. Many writers use the word "forward" in its place.
Foreword is defined as a preface or introductory note as for a book, especially by someone other than the writer.
Preface is defined as the introduction to or an opening statement of a literary work.
Epilogue is defined as the final section of a story or novel providing comment or conclusion of what happened in the story. The epilogue ties up loose knots and may contain the denouement.
Denouement is not often used but is an important term nonetheless. Similar to the epilogue it addresses the final outcome or dramatic complication in a literary work, especially the outcome of a complex sequence of event.
After the final chapter of my novel I use an epilogue to surmise a main character's point of view and give a glimpse into the future of the geographic area involved in the story. My epilogue is less than a page long. Since the thrust of the epilogue is a wrap up of events I felt it was an important tool to use instead of labeling it as another chapter.
These parts that make up your work may not consist of many pages, but are vial tools to the telling of your story.
Take care.
bethany moran