Which characteristic is true of a theme?

It is not stated by the author outright.

It is not linked to symbols.

It is explained by the author.

It is a summary of the plot.

The characteristic that is true of a theme is: It is not stated by the author outright.

Which description best defines a theme?

a summary

an underlying message

an analysis

a main idea

The description that best defines a theme is: an underlying message.