Theme / Thematic Statements

WHAt? Theme is the central, or controlling idea in the story. It is the main message that he author is trying to convey through the story. It is a unifying generalization about life that either is stated explicitly or the author implies it. It is usually implied.

Not all stories have a theme--- for instance, escapist literature Not all stories have a theme--- for instance, escapist literature! Some stories have more than one theme.

Theme exists when… The author has seriously attempted to record life accurately to reveal some truth about it. When he has mechanically introduced some concept or theory of life into the story which he uses as a unifying element and which the story is meant to illustrate

The theme of a story, like plot , may be stated briefly or at length. When stating a theme the following rules should be taken into consideration. Note that there is no black and white way of stating a theme, rather there are many interpretations possible. Still, the rules that follow need to be recognized.

Never refer to characters or events in the story Never refer to characters or events in the story. It must be a generalization about life

2. State the theme with a subject and a predicate 2. State the theme with a subject and a predicate. It is not enough to say that the theme is for example, anger. What about anger? Is it destructive? Constructive?

3. Do not make the generalization larger than can be justified by the story. Do not use terms like every, all, always. Use some, sometimes, may.

4. Remember that because theme is the central idea of the story, it must take into account all the major events in the story. The theme must not be contradicted by any detail of the story. As well, the theme must not rely on supposed facts, only on those that are stated in the story.

5. Do not use clichés to state the theme!

Clichés? Homework: Go home and find a cliché to share with the class tomorrow. You may ask parents [ they probably know more than a few, the internet, or friends ] What do you mean clichés? When life gives you lemons, make lemonade. Keep your eye on the ball Put your heart into it. A penny saved is a penny earned. Good things come to those who wait. An apple a day keeps the doctor away. The early bird gets the worm. Don’t burn your bridges. Patience is a virtue.