What does the term "theme" refer to in literature and art?

The term "theme" in literature and art refers to the underlying message or central idea that is explored throughout a work. It encompasses the deeper meaning behind the narrative, the concepts that connect the characters and plot, and the insights about human experiences and life that the author wishes to convey.

Choosing the subject of a talk or piece of writing reflects the broad topic or focus of the work but does not fully capture the essence of what a theme is. While the subject may be part of the overall discussion, the theme delves deeper, examining the implications, morals, or questions raised by the narrative. Thus, while the term "subject" can be a component of theme, it does not encompass the richness and complexity that the theme represents in literature and art.