Here's how it differs from a regular theme:
* Theme: A general idea or concept explored in the story. It's the overarching message that the story tries to convey. For example, the theme of a story might be "love conquers all".
* Applied Theme: A specific, practical message that can be applied to real life situations. For example, an applied theme based on "love conquers all" might be "communication and understanding are crucial for maintaining a strong relationship".
Here's how to identify the applied theme:
1. Look for the conflict: What challenges do the characters face? What obstacles do they overcome?
2. Consider the character's growth: How do the characters change throughout the story? What lessons do they learn?
3. Ask yourself "What should I take away from this?" What message does the story leave you with? How could you apply this message to your own life?
Examples of Applied Themes:
* Story: A story about a young woman who struggles to balance her career and family life.
* Theme: Work-life balance.
* Applied Theme: It's possible to find fulfillment in both your career and personal life by prioritizing time management, setting boundaries, and seeking support from loved ones.
Think of the applied theme as the "So what?" of the story. It's the answer to the question: "Why does this story matter to me?"