Writing Theme

Theme—the mysterious cousin of plot and character. Too often viewed as abstract rather than actionable, theme is frequently misunderstood and left to chance. Some writers even insist theme should not be purposefully implemented. This is unfortunate, because in many ways theme is story. Theme is the heart, the meaning, the point. Nothing that important should be overlooked. Powerful themes are never incidental. They emerge from the conjunction of strong plots and resonant character arcs.

Years may pass after a listener has listened to your book, but one thing will remain with them. Yes, it is theme alright. Theme is what breathes life and meaning into your novel. It is what makes your novel something worth listened toing again; something worth remembering; something worth sharing. Some authors overlook theme… which isn’t a good thing. What seems to be a trivial matter really can make or break your story. And get this, whether you choose a theme or not, it will always be there no matter what.