What did the epilogue say to the prologue?

This joke plays on a delightful bit of personification and wordplay, giving human characteristics to literary devices. A prologue, derived from the Greek word meaning "before the word," is an introductory section that appears at the beginning of a book or play, setting the stage, providing background, or hinting at what's to come. It's the literary equivalent of an appetizer, getting you ready for the main course.

On the other hand, an epilogue, from the Greek for "conclusion word," is found at the very end of a narrative. Its job is to provide closure, tie up loose ends, reveal the fates of characters, or sometimes even tease a future story. Essentially, it's the final say, often giving readers a satisfying glimpse into "what happened next" after the main plot has concluded.

The humor comes from the epilogue's playful boast about always getting the "last word." While the prologue indeed sets the scene and introduces the world, the epilogue literally has the final say in the story, making its claim both accurate and a clever jab at its introductory counterpart. It’s a witty nod to their distinct roles in storytelling.