Choosing a theme can be done in a number of ways.
Most of us decide on the story, or characters for our stories before starting to think about the theme.
Themes tend to evolve with the story as the writing moves forward.
Many of us get confused about theme and plot.
So, before we go further – if you are not sure exactly what a theme is I recommend you read this article here.
Choosing a theme is often done subconsciously.
We are not always aware that the themes in our stories are repeated from story to story.
CHOOSING A THEME – WHAT’S YOURS?
Choosing a theme to explore – before you start writing can also be key to your marketing plan.
Many successful writers explore the same themes within different stories.
SUCCESSFUL THEMES
Think about John Grisham. Many of his books explore injustice, greed, betrayal, isolation etc.
His many, many readers obviously enjoy these and respond accordingly by buying his books.
They know what they will get when they choose a John Grisham novel.
This is why understanding which themes appeal to you and awareness of how they appeal to your readers or potential readers, will help you enjoy more success as a writer.
CHOOSING A THEME – EXERCISE
The following exercise will help you choose a theme that suits you.
Take your time and think carefully as you do this.
The importance of this preparation will show up in your writing.
When you have finished your lists start to think about the stories and make notes about the themes.
Then, count the number of times each theme occurs.
To help you here are some examples of themes you should take a look at.
ARE YOU COMPELLED?
Armed with this fresh insight you can judge your ideas to help you determine whether or not you are likely to bring to a particular project to completion.
Writing a story is hard work and it takes time and patience.
If you do not feel compelled to explore the themes in the story you are writing, then your chances of hitting that finishing line are reduced.
TRY DIFFERENT THEMES.
Perhaps having thought about this and completed the above exercise you might learn that you need to find another story with a different theme.
I hear your pain, but surely it is better to find out now.
There is nothing more frustrating than realizing that you do not have a strong enough desire to finish a story you have spent considerable effort and time developing.
We writers need a healthy dose of creative compulsion.
If you are still not convinced there is more about choosing your story themes here.
We don’t just need to want to write, we need to need to write.
It also makes it a lot more fun for you and your readers.
Best of luck with choosing your theme and all your future writing.
Grace
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Loving your articles!! Very helpful!!
Glad you like them – best wishes. Grace
Love your article on Theme, needed a review. Thanks.
Glad it helped.
Grace
Very useful, thank you.
Great – thanks.
Grace
Thanks for helping me get a refresher!!! 😀
Helped me so much