Pondering Over Theme While Composing Writing
In the world of literature, themes play a crucial role in giving stories depth and meaning that transcends the plot alone. Themes often reflect universal human experiences and help readers connect emotionally and intellectually with a story. Angie Thomas, author of "The Hate U Give," may have used her book as a window into the life of an African-American person in America.
ARHuelsenbeck, a former elementary general music teacher, is a writer who understands the significance of themes in storytelling. Currently, she is working on a YA mystical fantasy work-in-progress titled "The Unicornologist," with the ulterior motive of encouraging readers to be open to the supernatural.
To identify and incorporate themes effectively, authors should thoroughly understand their story, identify conflicts and central ideas, consider their own perspective and context, and express the theme implicitly or explicitly. By following these steps, authors can ensure that their themes are woven naturally into the narrative structure and character development, fostering deeper engagement and critical reflection in readers.
ARHuelsenbeck's other works include a Bible study guide and a poetry chapbook, and some of her artwork, photography, and quilts can be seen on Instagram. She also blogs about the arts and the creative process at ARHtistic License.
It is not always necessary to have a theme in hand before beginning to write a story, but it is important to have one to avoid an ungrounded and pointless story. A good definition of theme is the message the author is trying to convey through their writing. The theme may be general, such as love, death, or taxes, or specific, such as "think before you speak or be prepared to deal with the consequences of your words."
In some cases, the theme may be covert, and it is beneficial to analyze and identify the story's message and tailor rewrites so the theme is always just below the surface. For example, the theme of "The Hate U Give" may not be explicitly stated, but it can be inferred through the story's exploration of racial injustice and the experiences of African-American people in America.
In conclusion, themes are the core ideas that give stories significance and connect with readers across cultures and time. By understanding and incorporating themes effectively, authors can create stories that resonate on a deeper level and leave a lasting impact on their readers.
During her work on "The Unicornologist," ARHuelsenbeck aims to weave themes related to YA mystical fantasy and openness to the supernatural into her narrative, ensuring a deeper engagement with readers who reflect upon these ideas. While not always necessary, having a clear theme in a work of fiction writing, such as love, death, or racial injustice, can greatly contribute to the story's resonance and its ability to connect emotionally and intellectually with a global audience, serving as a vital part of the creative process in book writing and entertainment.
