Theme

What is a theme? A theme is a reoccurring idea in literature. It is an idea that shows up again and again in the same story, novel, movie, opera, song, or television show (for starters). It is the message the author wants you to see, usually concerning a big idea or truth in life such as love, mortality, or forgiveness.

Sometimes a theme is stated directly. In Robert McNeil’s “The Trouble with Television,” the title states the theme of the piece: There are problems with television.

Sometimes it is stated indirectly. Through metaphor Through simile Through personification Through tone of voice Through symbols

Implied Through Simile Dream Deferred What happens to a dream deferred? Does it dry up like a raisin in the sun? Or fester like a sore— and then run? Does it stink like rotten meat? Or crust and sugar over— like a syrupy sweet? Maybe it just sags like a heavy load Or does it just explode? -Langston Hughes

Implied Through Personification Sleeping in the Forest by Mary Oliver I thought the earth remembered me, she took me back so tenderly, arranging her dark skirts, her pockets full of lichens and seeds.

Implied Through Tone of Voice

Implied Through Symbols

Implied Through Metaphors Life is a Yo-Yo. It is a series of ups and downs.

Now it is Your Turn. Many times our day can have a theme. Think back over your day so far. Has there been one thought, feeling, or idea that has repeated itself over and over again?

Care to Share? Is it that you are exhausted? Is it that you cannot do anything right today? Perhaps it is that everything is going your way. Your theme is luck! Perhaps you have done nothing but think about another person, in which case I think we all know what your theme is.