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Lit Theme

The document discusses the relationship between content and form in fiction, emphasizing that a story's theme emerges from the interplay of characters, events, and stylistic elements. It highlights the importance of a writer's unique approach to different subjects and the complexity of themes, which may not always unify a story. Ultimately, the document suggests that literature reflects the human condition through imaginative insights rather than explicit moral lessons.

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nakiyasadikot481
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11 views

Lit Theme

The document discusses the relationship between content and form in fiction, emphasizing that a story's theme emerges from the interplay of characters, events, and stylistic elements. It highlights the importance of a writer's unique approach to different subjects and the complexity of themes, which may not always unify a story. Ultimately, the document suggests that literature reflects the human condition through imaginative insights rather than explicit moral lessons.

Uploaded by

nakiyasadikot481
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Lit Theme

‘’ Cut a good story anywhere,” wrote Anton Chekhov, “and it will bleed.”

Chekhov’s observation reflects the organic connection between subject (or content) and form in fiction.

Through a fusion of content and form the writer shapes an interpretation of life.

This welding of content (notably characters and events) and form (technique, style) gives a story its main
meaning, or theme.

The subject of the story is what the story is about.

Our understanding of the theme grows from our perception and evaluation of the story.

But in trying to do so, we must not lose sight of that special genius that writers bring to their story.

Robert Louis Stevenson stated that “with each new subject . . . the true artist will vary his method and
change the point of attack.”

Each new subject — love, war, youth, marriage, revenge, or a combination of topics — dictates the correct
strategies.

And style and technique enable the writer to get at the subject of the tale and shape its meaning.

Elements of style: plot, characterisation, point of view, imagery, symbolism, mood, tone.

Searching for themes in literature make works meaningful and relevant.

In their search for truth through meaning, writers are interested in reflecting our thoughts, actions, feelings,
perceptions.

In most good fiction, theme is conveyed not through stating a moral or didactic point, but rather through
imaginative insight into the human condition.

In a complex story we may find multiple subjects and meanings.

Sometimes, writers may choose to be enigmatic, and obscure the subject, thus forcing readers to ponder over
the perplexing nature of the human condition.

We must also admit that theme does not always act as a unifying element in short fiction. A story can simply
be a slice of life; or a striving for special effect as in supernatural fiction; or focus on suspense and intrigue as
in detective and espionage fiction.

As in the stories of Henry James, a writer will produce fiction that deals either with the attitudes and
conventions of society and the age; with moments of moral or intellectual crisis; with individual feelings and
emotions; or with the realms of the mind and the poetic imagination.
As Chekhov declared, the artist “must set the question, not solve it.”

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