What literary term describes a recurring theme or motif?

The term that best describes a recurring theme or motif is symbolism. Symbolism involves using symbols—objects, characters, figures, or colors—to represent abstract ideas or concepts. When a theme or motif is repeated throughout a literary work, it often serves to enhance the meaning of the text and to create deeper connections within the narrative.

By employing symbolism, authors can convey complex ideas in a more profound way, allowing readers to engage with the material on multiple levels. For instance, a specific object or character might symbolize a larger concept, such as love, death, or the passage of time, thereby reinforcing these themes throughout a work.

In contrast, foreshadowing refers specifically to hints or clues suggesting future events in a story, which is distinct from a recurring theme. Imagery focuses on descriptive language intended to create visual representations in the reader's mind, while cliché denotes an overused expression that has lost its originality and impact. These terms are related to different devices and effects within literature and do not encapsulate the essence of a recurring theme or motif as effectively as symbolism does.