Diving into Themes: A Fun Guide for Authors and Readers

Hey there, fellow authors and readers! Let’s talk about something that makes stories pop: themes! Yep, those messages hiding behind characters and plot twists. Whether you’re an author crafting your next novel or a reader diving into a new adventure, understanding themes can take your literary journey to a new level. So, grab your favorite book or manuscript, and let’s dive in!

What’s the Big Deal About Themes for Authors and Readers?

Themes are the soul of a story. They’re the big ideas that make authors and readers go “hmm” long after they’ve closed or finished the book.

Love conquers all, power corrupts, or even the classic “good versus evil” — these are all themes. They’re the heartbeats that keep the story alive, giving it depth and meaning.

Themes as You Write

So, you want to sprinkle some themes into your writing? Here are some tips:

1. Know Your Story’s Heart: Before you start typing away, figure out what your story is really about. Is it a tale of redemption, a quest for identity, or a wild adventure? Knowing your story’s heart will help you with the right theme.
2. Character Chit-Chat: Characters are like little theme-delivery vehicles. Explore their quirks, fears, and dreams to uncover the deeper meanings behind your story. For example, in J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series, the theme of friendship shines through the unwavering bond between Harry, Ron, and Hermione.
3. Sprinkle Some Symbolism: Want to add a dash of intrigue to your story? Try using symbols and imagery to sneakily convey your themes. Think of the green light in “The Great Gatsby,” symbolizing the unreachable American Dream.
4. Let Your Words Dance: Dialogue isn’t just about who’s saying what; it’s about what’s left unsaid. Play around with subtext to add layers to your themes. Take “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee, where Atticus Finch’s quiet integrity speaks volumes about justice and morality.

“To produce a mighty book, you must choose a mighty theme. No great and enduring volume can ever be written on the flea, though many there be that have tried it.”

Herman Melville

A MasterClass post on writing defines the six common themes in literature as Good vs. Evil; Love; Redemption; Courage and Perseverance; Coming of Age; and Revenge.

As readers, themes are like treasure maps leading to hidden gems of insight. Here’s how you can embark on your theme-hunting adventure:

Themes as You Read

1. Read Between the Lines: Don’t just skim the surface; dive deep! Pay attention to the messages lurking beneath the plot twists and character arcs. For instance, in George Orwell’s “Animal Farm,” the theme of power and corruption unfolds through the rise and fall of the animal revolution.
2. Go Sherlock on the Text: Put on your detective hat and analyze the book. Look at how the author crafts their characters, weaves their plot, and sprinkles their thematic fairy dust. In Margaret Atwood’s “The Handmaid’s Tale,” themes of oppression and resistance are intricately woven into the dystopian fabric of Gilead.
3. Mix and Match: Don’t limit yourself to just books! Themes can be found everywhere, from movies to music to your weird neighbor’s poetry. Make connections between different stories and real-life experiences to deepen your understanding of themes.
4. Chat it Out: Grab a friend (or ten) and gab about your latest read. Sharing interpretations and bouncing ideas off each other can spark new insights and deepen your appreciation for the themes at play.

Wrapping It Up for Authors and Readers

So, authors and readers, there you have it! Themes are the spice that makes stories draw us in and keep us reading (and writing). Whether you’re crafting your own tale or diving into someone else’s, embracing themes adds a whole new dimension to your experience. So, keep exploring, keep discovering, and above all, keep reading! After all, the best stories are the ones that make you think long after you’ve turned the last page.

Authors and readers, what book has recently made you think, “Hmm?” Let me know in the comments!

Read A Guide to Setting SMART Goals for Writers, then follow me on Pinterest, Facebook, and Instagram, and subscribe to my newsletter to keep up with news about my book and any special offers! Be sure you grab your FREE 10-step checklist to plan your novel when you subscribe!

Hi, I’m Jen! I’ve been married for 38 years, have 5 amazing kids and 3 adorable grandkids. I homeschooled our three youngest children, and I used to blog about homeschooling. I also taught Oral Communication as an adjunct instructor for over 5 years.

Jen Dodrill Writes is born of a passion of mine – to write a novel! My first cozy mystery – Birds Alive! – released Feb. 27, 2024!

When I’m not working, you’ll find me writing, spending time with my family, or curled up on the couch reading and drinking a mug of dark roast coffee. (Don’t forget to check out my mug shop – JDMugs!)