In a guest post on Anne R. Allen’s blog, Becca Puglisi discusses how to use symbolism and theme in your fiction.
Writers often struggle with both. Symbols are easier to grasp, as they are simply an object or person that represents an idea. If your goal is to climb a mountain, the mountaintop is your symbol of success. But writers can confuse theme with topic. The “environment” is a topic, but your worldview and perspective about the environment will provide your theme, such as “we must work together to preserve our environment” or “humans must live in balance with the rest of the natural world.”
The theme emerges through the plot and your protagonist’s journey proves it. Sometimes, your hero has the opposite or a neutral opinion and is convinced to take a different stance by the end of your novel. “As authors, we’re orchestrating this process,” Puglisi says. “Sometimes it happens subconsciously, with our deeply rooted opinions organically making their way onto the pages as we write. But other people take a more strategic approach to theme. They know what idea they’re working with. They just have to find the best way to pass it along to readers.”
So how can you do that?
- The Cast of Characters. Once you’ve created your characters, you might find that each has a different view of the thematic idea. Allowing each character to voice their thoughts shows a 360-view of the theme, creates conflict, and helps readers explore the concept. Use your characters’ personality traits and experiences color how they view the theme.
- Reinforce the theme with symbols. “Theme is abstract, but symbols turn it into something solid and concrete that readers can easily grasp,” Puglisi says. Some symbols are universal, such as the idea that snakes represent evil or spring represents rebirth. However, those can seem clichéd unless you have a unique twist. Instead, consider using a personal symbol tied to your character. “These can be quite powerful because they relate directly to the character and their individual story,” Puglisi adds. “These objects can also contain inherent emotion because of the character’s connection to them.” You can also explore tried and true symbols for a smaller symbol within them or look for ways to subvert expectations. While spring may be a symbol of rebirth or renewal, it’s also a time when young animals are killed by predators or accidents.
