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Note Template
Theme
Develop a theme that captures the moral or emotional core of your story — and make sure you get the message across to readers.
Created by Reedsy
New theme...
Write a description here...
Theme
Ex. Identity
Subtheme(s)
Ex. Gender identity, belonging, etc.
Related symbols
Ex. @Symbol
People of interest
Ex. @Character
Statement of purpose
A brief, concise statement that captures the theme's essence. Ex. The consequences of revenge on the soul.
🪶
Theme...
What does this theme mean?
Talk about the theme in your own words.
Where might this theme appear in the story?
List potential key moments critical to a reader's understanding of the theme.
If your theme were a question rather than a statement, what would it be?
Write it out here.
🧨
... and plot
How is the plot structured around the central theme?
Write an outline for the key plot points where the theme is most directly explored.
What key scenes best illustrate your theme in action?
For each, note how the theme might be shaped by the plot or characters' decisions.
How does your climax resolve the thematic question?
What is the statement or realization about the theme at this point?
How does the resolution reflect your final stance on the theme?
Does the conclusion offer a resolution to the thematic questions posed, or is it open-ended?
🗡️
... and conflict
How do the internal conflicts relate to the theme?
How do these internal struggles shape their choices and growth?
How do the external conflicts relate to the theme?
How do these external forces push or pull against the central theme?
How do conflicts reveal differing perspectives on the theme?
Write a dialogue between two characters who disagree on the central theme.
How do characters’ actions during conflict express the theme?
Do characters make sacrifices, take risks, or challenge norms in line with the theme? How do these actions drive the plot forward while revealing the theme?
👥
... and character
How does the protagonist's arc reflect the theme?
What turning points in the protagonist’s journey highlight the theme?
How does the antagonist relate to the theme?
Write a scene between the protagonist and antagonist where the theme is explicitly discussed.
How do secondary characters embody aspects of the theme?
Do they represent alternative views, subthemes, or obstacles?
How do character relationships explore the theme?
How do interactions between characters reinforce or complicate the central theme?
👁️🗨️
... and symbols & motifs
What symbols will you use to reiterate the theme?
In which key scenes will they reappear?
What motifs will you use to reiterate the theme?
In which key scenes will they reappear?
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