In literature, what does the term "theme" refer to?

The term "theme" in literature refers to the main idea or underlying message of a literary work. Themes are often universal concepts that reveal insights about life, human nature, or society. They serve as an overarching focus that the reader can explore through various elements, such as characters, settings, and plot developments. A work can have multiple themes that interconnect in ways that deepen the reader's understanding of the narrative and its implications.

While physical settings, plot events, and the author's choice of words are critical to the storytelling process, they serve different functions. For example, the physical setting establishes context and atmosphere, the plot outlines the sequence of events, and word choice contributes to the voice and tone. However, the theme encapsulates the essence of what the writer seeks to communicate through the story.