Technically, themes are like man vs. nature, man vs.man, man vs. himself, and I forget the others.

In common usage, though, themes are the main point--redemption, hope, love, loss, triumph. Somewhere between the literary term "theme" and the literary term "moral" the story illustrates an idea. That point is what I consider my "theme"--the same meaning we give the word in everyday talk.

Most times I don't recognize my theme/s until much later, so it doesn't do me any good to map out a story, either. That's one reason I'm finding this contest so inspirational--I can think about the grand scheme before I write. I know I slip into old habits, but I really have tried to break out of my mold the last two weeks.

Thanks for the link. I glanced over it, but want to read it thoroughly. Looks like useful information.