Would it be a prologue or a preface if...?

Lexiana's second answer is correct. Basically, a prologue is part of the story, although it can take place in a different time. A preface, on the other hand, is a non-fiction introduction, where the author speaks as themselves, rather than as a character.

I would have thought it would be a prologue, because a preface is giving information the characters might not know, whereas the prologue is part of the story... I think. Hold on, let me look up definitions.

Can anyone help with my question? I've almost finished my novel, but i'm stuck at the most important part - the climax. If you think you're up to the challenge, please have a go at answering: http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index;_ylt=AmgSO...

EDIT: Ok, found it. A preface is: a preliminary statement in a book by the book's author or editor, setting forth its purpose and scope, expressing acknowledgment of assistance from others, etc.

A prologue is:a preliminary discourse; a preface or introductory part of a discourse, poem, or novel.

So it sounds to me like a preface is if you're trying to set the scene in realistic settings, like giving background information, or if you want to give thanks to people who made the book possible, whereas prologue is an introduction, which can be like a character looking back.

Preface.

answer mine please?

http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index;_ylt=Ar8Oj...