For some reason, we writers get very confused by theme. We get stuck on what it actually is. In this blog, I’m going to break down the meaning and how we can use theme to deepen our writing.
What is “Theme”?
When we think of theme, we can get confused on what this actually means. We can even obsess over it. Theme is what we get our meaning from. In stories, there’s often a meaning behind the tale we’re telling. This could be something like “be careful what you wish for”.
Consider Story First
It is really easy to get hung up on what message we’re trying to tell. There may be a really strong message we want to address. From experience, trying to shoe-horn a meaning into your work will only frustrate you. Like a LOT.
To overcome this, focus on the idea or story aspect first. You might be similar to me and not realise what the meaning is until later. That’s okay too. Making sure you have a strong idea first is the best thing you could do.
Come Back To Theme Later
Sometimes when we’re writing, we may not have a specific theme in mind. We might have an idea and a genre. Quite a lot of us have that as a starting point too. We plot and write the story and then have that lightbulb moment. It may not come to you until you’re editing a draft. That’s okay too.
You might think about a theme or you might have no idea. That works too. What we may not realise is that we’re writing a theme into the story anyway.
No Theme Plan
For those that panic at the thought of finding a theme, do not worry. What we also need to take into consideration is that different people will take different things from our work. You may come up with a theme. You may not. You’ll find that maybe what you had in mind someone else misses. They might even pick up something you had no idea about.
Prioritise Your Story
When you’re considering what meaning you want to put behind your story, make sure it serves your story. As writers, we need to put our story first. If a meaning behind our words comes later, then great! Getting bogged down in finding a meaning before you’ve even planned or written your story will get you stuck.
Your story has to come first. If the structure of your story doesn’t work, it won’t matter whether you have a meaning behind it or not. Serve the story and then focus on the meaning.
I hope this blog has been useful in deciphering theme. Finding your meaning can take time, so don’t worry if you don’t get it first time round. Focus on your story first and then come back for the theme afterwards. When you prioritise story, it’ll deepen the experience for your viewer or readers.
So best of luck and happy writing!