Attentive readers gain access to a theme or underlying message by paying close attention to the story’s motifs. The main purpose of a motif is to draw attention to a theme. Noticing what situations the motif appears in gives the reader insight into the larger message the author is alluding to. For instance, in the Vonnegut example above, the words “so it goes” always occur after a death is mentioned. Oftentimes, a motif will recur in similar situations throughout the story. Motifs point to a larger theme or concept. In fact, “motif” is a French word that translates to “pattern.” If you notice the same object, phrase, or symbol multiple times throughout the story, it’s probably a motif. Motifs are repeated throughout the story. A couple of key qualities can help you determine if what you’re reading is a motif: Grammarly helps you communicate confidently Write with Grammarly What is a motif in literature?Ī motif (pronounced mow-teef) can be an object, image, sound, idea, or word.
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