What is a story's central or unifying message?

1 answer

A story's central or unifying message, often referred to as its theme, is the underlying idea or insight that the narrative conveys. It reflects the author's perspective on a particular topic or issue and can explore various aspects of the human experience, such as love, conflict, sacrifice, resilience, identity, or morality. The theme ties together the plot, characters, and setting, providing coherence and depth to the story. It often prompts readers to reflect on their own experiences and the world around them, inviting different interpretations and discussions.