How to Write a Theme Statement

1. How to Write a Theme Statement

2. The Thematic Statement The Thematic Statement is the most important sentence in the essay. Get it wrong, and the rest of the essay will suffer. The thematic statement is a sentence that combines the TITLE (properly punctuated), the AUTHOR’S NAME (both first and last) and the GENRE of the piece and what the writer says about the subject.

3. A thematic statement is written in present tense. A thematic statement is written in the active voice. The verb in a thematic statement is not a form of “to be”. The verb should be vibrant and meaningful. The subject should be preceded by an adjective that will reveal the writer’s tone.

4. REVIEW • The necessary parts of a thematic statement are: • Title/Author/Genre, Tone, Theme+ descriptive adjective/adverb and strong verb. • W.H. Auden’s ironic poem, “Musee des Beaux Arts,” utilizes situational irony to suggest that life passes by nonchalantly for those whom tragedy does not directly affect.

5. MORE EXAMPLES Adrienne Rich’s contemplative poem, “Storm Warnings,” evokes a sense of calm in the face of turmoil through the use of imagery and concrete details to illuminate the speakers practiced response to an impending storm. Ray Bradbury’s poignant novel, Dandelion Wine, illuminates the coming of age of Douglas Spalding throught the use of extended metaphor and symbolism.

6. Now you try Prompt: How does John Steinbeck use foreshadowing to create meaning in Of Mice and Men? Write a theme statement.