A dictionary can be a good place to start – sometimes. Knowing how to explain what “theme” means in a reading and writing context will help us find what we’re looking for later on. Most importantly, each article will end with something fun and creative for you! We’ll give you the chance to study theme on your own with questions to ponder and writing prompts to spark new ideas.įirst things first, though: Let’s make sure we understand a) what theme is, and b) why it’s important.
Others will cover techniques to help identify themes in stories. Some articles will act as case studies, focusing on a particular theme in classic and contemporary literature. Today I’m thrilled to launch Theme: A Story’s Soul, a monthly DIY MFA column that deconstructs theme in novels and writing. However, what about defining the term “theme”? Or, picking out themes in your own work? That can be more of a challenge, but it’s one you don’t have to confront alone. Love, good versus evil, loss of innocence – and the list goes on. Giving examples of themes in literature isn’t too difficult.
