What can a well-defined theme in a narrative reveal?

A well-defined theme in a narrative serves as a fundamental insight into shared experiences and emotions that resonate across different contexts and cultures. It often encapsulates the core message or moral that the author wishes to convey, highlighting aspects of the human experience that are relatable and relevant to a broad audience. Themes can explore concepts such as love, loss, conflict, and resilience, allowing readers to reflect on their own lives in relation to the narrative.

While a character's physical appearance, the author’s personal beliefs, and the chronological events of the plot may contribute to the story and influence how it is perceived, they do not inherently provide the deep, abstract understanding that a theme does. The theme transcends individual details, offering insights that can apply universally, making it a powerful element in any narrative.