Theme
Themes are the heart of your story and allow readers to experience universal challenges from a safe distance. Through themes, we can empathize with characters dealing with loss and grief without enduring those experiences ourselves. A strong theme not only guides character development and the narrative but also encourages readers to reflect on the story long after they’ve reached the end.
Common Themes
Many novels and films explore a variety of themes, often intertwining them throughout the narrative. Here are some common themes you might encounter:
- Good vs. Evil
- Love
- Sacrifice
- Power and Corruption
- Survival
- Fate vs. Free Will
- Rebellion
- Friendship
- Loss and Grief
- Prejudice
- Wealth and Poverty
- Redemption
- Fear of the Unknown
- Justice and Injustice
- Family
- Coming of Age
- Technology
- Guilt and Forgiveness
- Ambition
- Revenge
It’s worth noting that many works of fiction employ multiple themes. A central theme may be accompanied by additional themes that emerge as the story unfolds. Identifying which theme is most integral to the narrative is often subjective because readers may interpret themes differently, leading to varied perspectives on what meaning a story truly conveys.
The Exorcist by William Peter Blatty
Let’s take a closer look at some themes in The Exorcist:
- Good vs. Evil
The central theme revolves around the battle between demonic forces (evil) and faith in the Catholic Church (good). - Faith and Doubt
Father Karras’ faith is tested, leading him to question his belief in God and the power of religion against the might of the devil. - Innocence and Corruption
The possession of Regan, an innocent child, symbolizes the corruption of innocence by dark forces. - Guilt and Forgiveness
Father Karras experiences guilt over his mother’s death and his weakening faith, seeking God’s forgiveness by sacrificing himself to save Regan.
If you want to try identifying a theme yourself, read the passage below and try to identify the central theme plus any others. For example, the central theme of the Game of Thrones series of novels is ambition, but there are multiple other themes including power and corruption, family, and hope.
The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas
I can’t be the only one. I can’t be the only person who has been at a party where someone says something racist and everyone laughs. I can’t be the only one who feels the pressure of silence when something bad happens to a friend or a loved one. Khalil’s death has opened my eyes; it’s like someone turned on a light in a dark room. I have to find my voice and use it, not just for Khalil, but for everyone who feels unheard and unseen. It’s time to stand up and say that this.
final thoughts
Theme is the heart of your story. A strong theme drives the narrative and ensures your readers continue to think about your story even after they’ve reached ‘The End.’
