1. So what you are trying to say is…
Theme
So what you are trying to say is…

2. What is Theme?
Theme is the central idea, purpose, or lesson that a story is trying to teach. If you think of an onion and it’s layers, you can see where theme comes into play in a story. It's at the very heart of the literature, but like the center of an onion, you have to peel away layers to get to the central idea.

3. Layers of Meaning
Actual Meaning: The literal words used by the author in the story or poem.

4. Actual Meaning: The actual events in the story or words in a poem.
Author’s Message: the ideas the writer wants to convey

5. Universal Truth: The Theme
Author’s Message: The ideas the writer wants to convey.
Actual Meaning: The actual events in the story or words in a poem.

6. Of Special Note
In most cases, you will not find the theme directly in a story or poem. Instead, a reader must infer, or make an educated guess, after reading a piece.

7. Clues to Be Found
Places to find clues to the theme:
The Title
The First Paragraph/Stanza
The Last Paragraph/Stanza
Repeated words or phrases

8. REMEMBER
Theme is not the topic of the work, but a statement made about the topic.

9. Examples of Common Themes
Bravery
Sorrow
Love conquers all
Always expect the worst to happen