List of first lines of famous literary works

Introduction References & Edit History Related Topics

Images & Videos

Preface to the first edition of the Encyclopædia Britannica

Open book with Regency-era illustration of Jane Austen holding a book; large script “J. Austen” across; background of handwritten text.

Illustration of the Walden Pond cabin

Cover of Charlotte's Web by E.B. White, illustrated by Garth Williams, showing a girl holding a pig with a sheep, goose, and spider on a web above the title.

The Colorful Life of Alice Walker

List of first lines of famous literary works: References & Edit History

Article Contributors

Primary Contributors

René Ostberg
René Ostberg is an associate editor at Encyclopaedia Britannica.

Article History

Type	Description	Contributor	Date
	Added a cross-reference.	René Ostberg	Oct 07, 2026
	New article added.	René Ostberg	Sep 18, 2026