Theme – central idea
The theme is the central idea in a piece of writing or other work of art. It is the main subject.
The seam (theme) of gold went right through the centre (central) of town.
NOTE:
Understanding a story’s theme is central to deciphering an author’s message.
Examples
1. Renaissance painters used the themes of mythology of the classic period for inspiration.
2. Themes for books vary enormously but include:
Coming of age (girl turns into woman, boy into man)
Power (lust for power)
There are many more.
3. Shakespeare’s theme in Macbeth is deceit and treachery, whereas Romeo and Juliet is based on the theme of love.
