Motifs in Literature

Including a motif in a story can be an effective literary tool. The term motif comes from a French word that means pattern. In literature, it's an object or element that may symbolize something else, strengthen a theme, or foreshadow what is to come. It will occur more than once in the book, thus creating a pattern.

In my book of small-town life in 1963, Unexpected, the song, "Running Scared," becomes a motif. Bits and pieces of the song come at different times in the story and reemphasize what's happening or how the characters feel. A line near the end of the song also helps with the ending scene. Even a reporter that read the book before he interviewed me recognized this motif.

In It All Started at the Masquerade, the masks become a less obvious motif. Lucas's mask symbolizes his retreat from the world since he wears a mask through most of the book to hide his scarred face. When he finally leaves it off, it creates a powerful moment. The mask Melanie wears to the ball symbolizes the persona she is forced to show in front of Lott Jenkins, her brother, and her sister-in-law.

Motifs can add another layer to a book. The reader doesn't have to recognize the literary element to enjoy it. However, it does help to create a deeper, more meaningful story that may stick with readers long after they finish the book.

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