Often, literary themes are suggested by just one word or one phrase. However, the theme is not the same as the subject or topic. The theme is the idea that the writer wishes to convey about a particular subject, so to complete a theme, you would make a statement about a subject.
A theme will not be stated as a single word or phrase.
A theme will not be stated as a question.
A theme will be stated as a complete sentence.
A theme will use the topic word (or a synonym) in the sentence.
For example: "That which is most difficult is often the most worthwhile."
"It is easier to hate in general than it is to hate specifically."
"Those who try too hard to look good are more often laughed at than admired."
The Theme or Message:
What does this book teach about how life could or should be lived?
--- about what is of value in life?
Following are the subjects/topics of some common themes in literature:
accomplishment,
anger,
attitude,
These are topics for themes, not themes.
charity, choices,
compassion,
community,
compromise,
curiosity,
courage,
These are topics for themes, not themes.
death,
determination,
dishonesty,
diversity,
duty,
equality,
endurance,
These are topics for themes, not themes.
example,
faith,
family,
fear,
forgiveness,
freedom,
friendship,
generosity,
good vs. evil,
greed,
These are topics for themes, not themes.
grief,
happiness,
hate,
honesty,
hope,
human rights,
humor,
identity,
imagination,
These are topics for themes, not themes.
innovation,
integrity,
a journey to
greater wisdom,
judging,
learning,
love,
loyalty,
nature,
These are topics for themes, not themes.
patience,
patriotism,
peace,
perseverance,
pioneering,
relationships,
responsibility,
revenge,
These are topics for themes, not themes.
self-esteem,
stewardship (e.g., over nature),
success,
survival,
teamwork,
trust,
understanding,
unity,
vanity,
worth
These are topics for themes, not themes.
