She explained to us that everyone has a theme, a trope, a character trait that runs through their stories. Her book is a story sequence and so her novel's common theme is it's main character while the common question is "Will Joon be all right?" But, even people who aren't writing story sequences have them. It's a commonality that speaks to the author’s inner psyche or interests. This makes sense to me. There are some stories that resonate with me, that I want to explore, and others that just don’t. For example, everything that I’ve written typically centers on family, hope, and frying pans. However, I didn’t realize that until I looked back at my body of work and actually wrote out the themes and commonalities that I saw.
But, as I was making these connections I had to wonder. Is this a good thing? Is it important that I’m aware of this? On one hand, finding out common themes in my writing might make it easier for me continue on that trajectory. Obviously, if I write about it, I’m interested in it, and so I can stay away from the things that don’t interest me. On the other hand, should I stay away from these things? What if I only write the same story the rest of my life? Will this prevent me from exploring other, potentially more interesting themes and subjects?
I might be thinking too much into this, but I like seeing the common themes. Just looking back and seeing the themes that have immerged was kind of a reassurance. Like someone saying to me “Yes, you have something to say. Look how you’ve already tried to say it so many times! Yes, there is a point to your writing.” (No matter how weird that point is)
What’s your point? What questions and themes make you write?
I have the same problem too. I noticed that I usually have a guy -- most likely an emo virgin -- that falls for a girl, until he realizes that she isn't the best choice and falls for another girl that he previously disliked. I don't think it's bad as long as it doesn't become formulaic like Sarah Dessen and John Green's formulas. But it is annoying when you look at the greater body of your work.
ReplyDeleteHahaha, although if I were like John Green and hit on a formula that worked I'd just stick with it. I think if you write the story so many times you'll eventually perfect it. Unfortunately, none of mine have really worked yet...
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