Meaning: Diane Johnson, an American novelist, once said, "A novel's whole pattern is rarely apparent at the outset of writing, or even at the end; that is when the writer finds out what a novel is about, and the job becomes one of understanding and deepening or sharpening what is already written. That is finding the theme." This quote speaks to the process of writing a novel and the discovery of its underlying theme.

When an author sets out to write a novel, they may have a general idea or concept in mind, but the full scope and pattern of the story may not be entirely clear from the beginning. As the writing progresses, the author delves deeper into the characters, plot, and setting, and it is during this process that the true essence of the novel begins to emerge. Johnson suggests that it is through the act of writing itself that the author uncovers what the novel is truly about.

The idea that the writer discovers the theme of the novel as they go along highlights the organic and evolving nature of the creative process. It implies that the act of writing is not just a transcription of a preconceived idea, but rather a journey of exploration and revelation. This aligns with the experiences of many authors who find that their initial concept may transform and evolve as they delve deeper into the story and its characters.

Johnson's assertion that the job becomes one of understanding and deepening or sharpening what is already written underscores the iterative nature of writing. As the author uncovers the theme of the novel, their task shifts to honing and refining the existing material to better align with this emerging theme. This process of understanding and deepening the narrative can involve revisiting earlier sections of the novel, making revisions, and adding layers of meaning to the story.

The concept of finding the theme of a novel also speaks to the importance of coherence and underlying purpose in storytelling. The theme is the central idea or message that the author seeks to convey through their work. It is the thread that ties the narrative together, providing depth and significance to the events and characters within the story. By identifying and refining the theme, the writer can ensure that the novel resonates with readers on a deeper level.

In conclusion, Diane Johnson's quote encapsulates the dynamic and evolving nature of the novel-writing process. It emphasizes the idea that the true pattern and theme of a novel may reveal themselves gradually as the author delves into the writing. This insight into the creative process serves as a reminder that writing is not just about executing a preconceived idea, but also about discovery and exploration. It highlights the importance of understanding and deepening the narrative to fully realize the thematic essence of the story.