You’ve probably heard the words “theme” and “symbolism” a lot. Some people would argue that all forms of literature have both of them. Some disagree. Regardless, they aren’t just literary buzzwords – they are tools for adding depth and resonance into your writing so that your stories linger in your readers’ minds.
Here, we break down what each means for your stories and how you can weave them naturally into your own writing.
What is a theme?
A theme is the heart of your story. It’s the bigger idea that your narrative revolves around. Think of it as the lens through which your characters’ journeys are viewed. Typically, it says something about life, society, or human nature. For instance, in A Separate Peace, themes like the loss of innocence and the impact of war are woven throughout the narrative, providing a lens through which readers interpret the characters’ actions and growth.
Whether it’s love conquers all, the inevitability of change, or the cost of power, themes help readers connect with the universal truths in your story.
Tips for developing themes:
- Start with questions:
Ask yourself, What do I want readers to take away from this story?
Alternatively, you could ask, What do I want my readers to think about?
For example, if you’re writing about perseverance, think about the challenges your characters will face and how they overcome them.
- Let the theme emerge naturally:
Avoid overloading the narrative or dialogue with obvious moral lessons. Instead, let your characters’ actions and the story’s progression subtly reveal the theme. Think of how To Kill a Mockingbird explores themes of justice and morality through Scout’s observations and her father’s actions.
- Explore multiple angles:
A single theme can take on different dimensions. For example, if your theme is love, include sub-themes like familial love, unrequited love, or self-love to add complexity.
- Reflect reality:
Readers love themes that mirror real-life dilemmas. A story about betrayal could explore themes of trust and vulnerability, making it relatable and impactful.
- Stay relevant to your plot:
Ensure your theme aligns with the main events in your story. For example, if your theme is redemption, your plot should include a journey or events where the protagonist confronts past mistakes.
What is symbolism?
Symbols are like the Easter eggs of storytelling—hidden gems that add layers of meaning. They’re physical objects, recurring motifs, or even actions that point to a larger idea. A rose might symbolize love, but if it’s wilting, it could represent love lost or unrequited.
For example, in Gabriel García Márquez’s One Hundred Years of Solitude, yellow butterflies are a recurring symbol representing the presence and influence of a character named Mauricio Babilonia. It adds an element of a magical realism to the story.
Tips for using symbolism:
- Start small:
Introduce symbols that feel natural within the story’s context. For instance, a key can symbolize hidden truths or unlocking potential. Small, everyday objects can hold powerful meanings when tied to the plot.
- Think beyond the obvious:
While a dove might signify peace, what about using a cracked mirror to symbolize fractured identity or trust? Unique symbols stand out.
- Integrate symbols seamlessly:
Don’t force a symbol into the story. It should fit naturally into your narrative. If a character lives by the sea, a recurring wave motif can symbolize emotional tides.
- Evolve your symbols:
Let symbols grow with the characters or plot. For instance, a key might represent hope early on, but by the end, it could signify control or even despair.
- Give symbols dual meanings:
A well-crafted symbol can have multiple interpretations, making it more engaging for readers. For example, fire can symbolize both destruction and renewal, depending on the story’s tone and events.
- Use colors strategically:
Colors are powerful symbols. Red often represents passion or danger, while green might signify growth or envy. Pay attention to how you use color descriptions to reinforce your theme subtly.
How themes and symbols work together
Themes and symbols are storytelling partners. While themes provide depth, symbols bring them to life visually. Together, they turn a good story into a memorable one.
Tips for combining themes and symbols:
- Identify Your Central Theme: Determine the core message you want to convey. This will serve as a foundation for your narrative and help you make intentional choices about plot and character development.
- Choose Relevant Symbols: Select symbols that naturally align with your theme. For example, if your theme is freedom, birds or open skies can serve as effective symbols. And introduce them in a way that feels natural within the story. Overt or forced symbolism can distract readers and detract from the narrative.
- Balance Subtlety and Clarity: While subtlety can make your story more engaging, ensure that your themes and symbols are clear enough for readers to grasp their significance without feeling lost.
- Use Multiple Symbols for Complex Themes: Don’t limit yourself to one symbol. For a story about redemption, you might use light (hope) and water (cleansing) to convey the theme from different angles.
- Reflect on real-life inspirations: Drawing from real-life events or personal experiences can help you create authentic themes and symbols that resonate with readers.
- Subvert expectations: Take familiar symbols and flip them. A hero’s sword, traditionally a symbol of power, might become a reminder of guilt if it was used for wrongful actions.
- Consistency is key: Ensure that your symbols consistently represent the intended concepts throughout the story to avoid confusing your readers.
Practical writing exercises
- Analyze your favorite books:
Pick a novel or story you love and identify its themes and symbols. How are they introduced? Do they recur in meaningful ways? This will give you a blueprint for crafting your own.
- Write symbolically:
Craft a scene where no one explicitly states what’s happening. Let symbols (a broken clock, a burning candle) hint at the emotional undercurrent.
- Create a symbol cheat sheet:
Before writing, list symbols relevant to your story’s theme. If you’re writing about resilience, think of imagery like storms, mountains, or unyielding trees.
- Use symbolism sparingly:
Overusing symbols can overwhelm readers. Aim for 2-3 recurring symbols that complement the narrative instead of distracting from it.
- Test it on beta readers:
Ask others to identify the theme and symbols in your story. If they pick up on them without being prompted, you’re on the right track.
Why this matters
When done well, themes and symbols make your writing something that can resonate with others. They invite readers to think, to interpret, and to feel connected to the story you’re telling.
When you sit down to write, think about the bigger picture: What do you want your readers to take away? And what subtle, symbolic breadcrumbs will you leave to guide them?
Every story has the potential to engage readers. Themes and symbols are your keys to unlocking that power.