Theme is one of those topics in fiction writing that many writing guides barely mention, if they mention it at all. I believe the reason ‘Theme’ is often ignored in novel writing books and courses is that it’s an abstract concept. As opposed to a concrete one, like character, plot and setting.
So, do you really have to have a theme for your book? Not necessarily.
Think about theme as some essential take-away thought you want to leave your reader with when they finish your book. Theme speaks to your plot, but more so to the heart of your story. One way to get to your theme is to ask yourself just why you are writing this book, anyway.
Ask yourself: Do I have a message or something I want to say to my readers? Some commentary on life, society, government, faith, or some other issue? Even if you are not trying to push a “message” per se, your book should be about something.
EXERCISE: If I were to ask you to tell me why you wrote your novel in one sentence, what would tell me?
Can you think of something to say that will make me (your potential reader) nod and say, “Wow, that’s interesting (or needed or pertinent or important or . . .)”? If you can’t think of a significant take-away statement, then you might need to stop writing and start thinking.
Be brave and post your sentence in the comments below!
