Allusions In The Hunger Games

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Hey there! Today’s literary discussion is on theme. Third on our list, theme is defined by Dictionary.com as a unifying or dominant idea, motif, etc., as in a work of art, (Dictionary.com). In short, a theme is “the author’s purpose, meaning, or message,” (Lesha Myers, 104). Theme provides your story with greater meaning and purpose. It allows readers to dig deeper into your writing. While some themes are incredibly evident (i.e. Androcles and the Lion depicts the benefits of helping others), others can be subjective. Take The Hunger Games for example; some say the theme is defiance of immoral authority while others might say the theme is surviving against all odds. Both would be right because Suzanne Collins' theme is open to interpretation. …show more content…

For instance, a sentence such as “Love bled from him,” could be considered an allusion to the crucifixion of Jesus Christ for our sins. Likewise, words and phrases such as resurrection and silver coins also allude to historical, biblical events. Allusions such as these hint to other works and add greater depth to your story. Imagery underlines your theme with visual representation. The mockingly pin in The Hunger Games serves as imagery suggesting Katniss, like the mockingly, is a creature the Capitol never wanted to exist. The rose in Beauty and the Beast is something that blooms in adversity. Be sure to utilize these and other literary devices to bring your theme to the reader’s attention. If you want a powerful, memorable theme, choose something that will really resonate with your readers. A ‘coming-of-age’ theme will not be nearly as applicable to an older target audience as it will to a teenage readership. A theme about loving children could be more meaningful to an adult audience. Finally, think carefully about the purpose of your story before picking a theme. A story about a commoner fighting a dragon will host a theme of courage or fighting temptation better than it would love or gratitude. Conclusively, ask yourself what the meaning is behind your story, and modify that into your