Sewing in the Theme Seam

Today, I thought we'd talk about theme, since it's on my mind.

When I was writing my first novel, I was also reading every 'how to' book I could on the craft of writing. (Still am).

While I was busy mastering pov (point of view), cutting superfluous words, layering in description, showing instead of telling, I learned that there was yet another thing my story needed: a theme.

I remember thinking, 'or crying out loud, they've got to be kidding!'
It felt like an impossibility to weave in a theme on top of everything else. Something only maybe a literary genious could pull off.

I was overwhelmed and feeling inadequate.

Until. . .
I read that even if you don't have a theme in mind while you're writing, one will usually emerge.

So, I ignored the dreaded 'theme' and just wrote my novel.

Guess what?

A theme did indeed emerge. With the first novel it was: Ask for what you want.

Simple. I just didn't know that was my theme till I wrote the last chapter and I needed to tie it all together.

I told you I've recently read Ray Blackston's, Flabbergasted.
The book was fresh and funny but what will make me buy his next book is the satisfying ending. The theme: God has great plans for us if only we'll let Him lead us.

Now, that I've got a little more experience writing novels, theme is not overwhelming. Mostly, I suppose, because I'm no longer working on trying to master the basics.

I knew the theme of my current novel within the first few chapters. It emerged early. I didn't sit down, however, and say I'm going to write a book with the theme of letting God use us as He sees fit.

Something tells me I'd end up with a book that was more lecture than story.

But, as I write, I am keeping the theme that has naturally emerged in mind. Though I don't know how the story will end or all the twists and turns just yet, I do know what my protaganist must learn by the end of the book. I know how to bring her home.

What's your theme?