themes

A theme is the central topic, issue, or message that a work of art or literature conveys about life, society, or human nature. It is not simply the subject or plot event, but the underlying idea that a creator examines and invites the audience to consider.

Themes are developed through character actions, decisions, conflicts, and settings, as well as symbols, imagery, and narrative structure. A single work can explore multiple themes, which can be universal—such as love, justice, or resilience—or culturally specific. Readers or viewers may interpret themes differently depending on context and perspective.

In literature and drama, common themes include morality, coming of age, power and corruption, freedom and oppression, identity, and mortality. In film and television, visual and auditory elements reinforce themes via motifs, lighting, sound design, and editing. In music, themes can be recurring melodies or lyrical ideas that carry meaning across a work.

In visual arts, themes appear as enduring subjects or conceptual ideas across works; in interactive media and games, player choices may reveal or alter themes. In design and software, the term theme also refers to a coherent set of stylistic choices—color palettes, typography, and layout—used to create a consistent appearance across interfaces or products.

See also motif and symbolism.