27 Jun 2023 9:00 am
Hi everyone! I hope you’re all well. Today I’m going to be talking about ‘theme’ in regard to fiction writing! I’ll explain what it is, how you can develop it and even share a few examples of theme in a few famous stories. So, with that in mind, let’s discuss theme!
What is ‘Theme’?
In fiction writing, the theme is the central message underscoring a story that a writer is trying to convey; it is what the story is really about on a much deeper level than the plot. It is usually a moral or lesson that the author wants to explore with the reader.
How can you Spot the Theme in Other Stories?
1 Look for Recurring Ideas or Motifs – Pay attention to repeated concepts, images, or symbols which might appear throughout the book. These may be clues to the book’s theme. For example, in the novel “The Great Gatsby,” the color green is a recurring motif that represents envy and jealousy, which ties into the book’s theme of the corrupting influence of money and obsession.
2 Analyse Character Development – As the plot unfolds, note any changes or growth in the main characters. Often, the theme can be seen through the characters’ transformation. For example, in “To Kill A Mockingbird,” the theme of racism and prejudice is explored through Atticus Finch, who stands up against the injustice and discrimination he sees in his community.
3 Pay Attention to the Author’s Language – The author’s choice of words, tone, and style can also give clues about the theme. Look for figurative language, such as metaphors, similes, or analogies, that help convey the theme. In the book “The Road,” Cormac McCarthy uses a bleak and desolate tone to explore the theme of survival in a harsh and unforgiving world.
4 Consider the Historical and Cultural Context – Understanding the historical and cultural context of the book can provide insight into the author’s message and intended theme. For example, the book “Nineteen Eighty-Four” by George Orwell explores themes of totalitarianism and government control, which were relevant issues when it was written in 1949.
How can you Develop your Theme?
1 Identify your Theme – Before writing your story, it’s crucial that you identify the primary message you want to explore. Your theme could be related to universal things like love, death, power, or identity, or you may choose to explore more specific or complex issues like racism, poverty, or addiction. Once you identify your theme, it will be easier to develop your story.
2 Use Symbolism – One way to develop your theme is through symbolism. By scattering symbols throughout your story, you can convey a deeper meaning behind your characters’ actions and create a sense of interconnectedness.
3 Create Relatable Characters – Your characters should reflect the theme. For example, if your theme is about overcoming adversity, your characters should face challenges and find ways to overcome them. This will reinforce your theme, making it more impactful.
4 Use Setting to your Advantage – Your story’s setting can also help reinforce your theme. Setting your story in a particular time and place, can add depth and highlight certain aspects of your theme.
5 Be Consistent – Once you have identified your theme, it’s vital that you are consistent throughout your story. Your characters and plot points should work towards your theme, avoiding contradictions, which would only confuse your readers.
What are Some Other Examples of Themes in Well-known Stories?
– In “The Catcher in the Rye” by J.D. Salinger, the theme is coming of age.
– In “The Hate U Give” by Angie Thomas, the theme is racial injustice.
– In “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone” by J.K. Rowling, the theme is good vs evil.
– In “The Notebook” by Nicholas Sparks, the theme is love and sacrifice.
– In “The Hunger Games” by Suzanne Collins, the theme is power, oppression, and rebellion.
– In “Big Little Lies” by Liane Moriarty, the theme is domestic violence.
Whatever theme you choose to explore, it should be woven into your story in a way that feels natural and organic rather than forced or preachy, and it should also be noted that, while yes, a theme can play an important part in storytelling, it is not essential for all stories to have one. In fact, it is perfectly acceptable and, sometimes, necessary to write a story whose purpose is simply to entertain. A good story can even be ruined by shoehorning a theme into a piece of fiction it has no business being in.
Well, that’s theme. I hope you found today’s post helpful in some way and that you learned something!
As always, thanks for sharing some of your time with me today! It means a lot.
Until next time,
George
© 2023 GLT
Posted by georgelthomas
Categories: Editing, Outlines, Writing Tips
Tags: character, Setting, story, symbolism, theme, Writer, writing
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