WORD
Definition
Sentence that best shows the meaning
HOW TO WRITE A QUALITY THEMATIC STATEMENT
• A complex statement that reflects the theme, or authors perspective of the world through the specific piece of literature.
• Theme is an abstract idea coupled with a comment or observation which addresses:– human motivation– human condition– human ambition
RULES
• A theme is NOT a moral, a directive, or an order.– it avoids judging what people should or should
not do– not appropriate is an order/directive such as
“Be nice to elderly people” or “Love like there’s no tomorrow.”
RULES
• Themes are NOT trite sayings– (clichés, maxims, or aphorisms)– “Actions speak louder than words,” “Love
hurts,” or “Absence makes the heart grow fonder.”
• Cheese factor?
• Themes do NOT refer to the specific names or events of a particular literary piece– Think in general terms
• Themes avoid absolute terms such as “all,” “none,” “everything,” or “always” because they indicate sloppy thinking
THEMATIC STATEMENT
• "The Most Dangerous Game"– Men, when they are courageous and lucky,
even in a hostile environment, can overcome the odds against their survival.
– Our reason, courage and strength can reach their full potential when challenged by a hostile environment.