What is the first chapter about?
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The first chapter of The Prologue is titled "Death and Chocolate." This chapter serves as a very brief introduction to the story. In it, we meet the narrator, who is Death himself. He is candid about two things. First, he is candid about the idea of dying, and states plainly that this is the end point for all humans. Second, he is candid about his view of the world, which is always described by a color first. It is as if from this objective perspective, Death can paint a picture of the reality of World War 2 that includes untraditional and arguably beautiful description, despite the fact that his presence means someone has died.
At the end of this short chapter, Death gives the audience a preview of the entire story, depicted as a list. This serves to foreshadow people and events in the story. It also sets the tone for the novel. As a Holocaust story, a typical audience is prepared for a dark and depressing tone. In this opening chapter, a very matter-of-fact tone is set that allows the audience to move forward in the story with a sense of curiosity and hope.
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