How to create and use a theme in your Index Astartes

[Malthe]

Malthe, it seems to me you might be over-thinking things.

 

 

A chapter is a military fighting unit.

To try to force some deeper meaning, burning questions or heavy theme into it MIGHT make it more intereasting/unique, or it might have a opposite effect.

 

Does there have to be a deeper meaning? No. Does there have to be some burning question? Not really. Altough I'm sure poeple will find some, just as they find hidden symbolism in things.

 

Actually, I disagree ;)

 

First of all, I never suggested forcing a deeper meaning, or burning question, or indeed a heavy theme, upon anything.

I merely pointed out a method for thinking of, and applying themes.

 

Second. Do I think that an IA should have a theme?

It may no suprise you that my answer is Yes.

 

Why do I think so? Because I find pseudo-lexical articles about fictional warrior bortherhoods to be quite dull, when they do not have a theme... This is a matter of taste of course.

 

Making a great IA is also about making it interesting for the reader. Fictional historical trivia is only interesting for so long.

Therefore you need to add something, to make your IA more than a lexical entry.

 

I believe Octavulg suggests in his guide that you can do this in two ways: By theme or by narrative.

Personally I think IAs are better suited for themes, it is also easier (for most people) to write thematic peices rather than interesting narratives.

A perfect IA would idealy contain both, but hey, we're all amatuers here.

 

Anyhow, I think the method I suggested above is both effective and enjoyable to work with, and I suggest you try it :D

If you find it not to your liking, then that's fair. We all have our preferred ways of doing things, and if it works who's to say your doing it wrong?

 

Cheers!