1. To determine theme, start by figuring out the main idea. Then keep looking around the poem for details such as the structure, sounds, word choice, and any poetic devices.
2. The main thing to remember about topic is that it pertains to the story's “what.” It's driven by facts and specifics, whereas theme deals with the big picture and overall meaning that reveal why the story matters.
3. the characters, the setting, the plot, the conflict, and the resolution.
