Plot-Theme. The link between the theme and the events of a novel is an element
which I call the plot-theme. It is the first step of the translation
of an abstract theme into a story, without which the construction of a plot
would be impossible. A “plot-theme” is the central conflict or “situation” of a
story—a conflict in terms of action, corresponding to the theme and complex
enough to create a purposeful progression of events.
The theme of a novel is the core of its abstract meaning—the
plot-theme is the core of its events.
For example, the theme of Atlas Shrugged is: “The role of the mind
in man’s existence.” The plot-theme is: “The men of the mind going on strike
against an altruist-collectivist society.”
The theme of Les Misérables is: “The injustice of society
toward its lower classes.” The plot-theme is: “The life-long flight of an
ex-convict from the pursuit of a ruthless representative of the law.”
The theme of Gone With the Wind is: “The impact of the Civil War
on Southern society.” The plot-theme is: “The romantic conflict of a woman who
loves a man representing the old order, and is loved by another man,
representing the new.”