The Literary Element of Theme Theme is the basic message the writer wishes to tell you.

The message usually has something to do with life, society, or human nature. Theme is NOT: the purpose of a work (P.I.E) the moral the conflict the rising or falling action Common themes include
love jealousy loneliness freedom courage prejudice betrayal fear friendship hope survival good vs. evil

More complex themes:

Crime Does Not Pay: A popular theme played out in books throughout time is the concept that honesty is honored and criminals will eventually be caught. Overcoming Adversity (misfortune/hard times): Many books praise characters who accept a tough situation and turn it into triumph. Billy Jo in Out of the Dust overcomes several difficult situations (her mother's death, the drought, being burned) and finds a way to move forward and make the best of her life. Friendship is Dependant on Sacrifice: This is the idea that you can't have friends if you don't act like a friend. The Importance of Family: Sacrifices for family are honored and explored, as are the family bonds that survive adversity. Death is Part of the Life Cycle: Literary works with this theme show how death and life and intricately connected. Sacrifices Bring Reward: Sacrifices and hard work pay off in the end, despite the challenges along the way.