Motif

Motif
A motif is any element, subject, idea or concept that is constantly used through the entire piece of literature. Using a motif means you are repeating a specific theme that is a main point in the literary work. Motifs are very noticeable and are important in defining the story, the course of events and the very base of the literary piece.

Example
In the Lord of the flies, the main motif I notice is the fight between civilization and savagery. There are several symbols for each side, one being the constant need for their conch shell. Their symbol of order. The other side of the spectrum is the breaking of Piggy's glasses, and the chant the boys make up for killing. But in the end, you always see the fight between Ralph and Jack. Ralph is trying to keep order while Jack is trying to be a savage, survive for his own gain. Even in their most pity of fights, Jack is violent and angry, while Ralph just wants things to get done.

Quotes from the book
"He tried to convey the compulsion to track down and kill that was swallowing him up." Page 51 "'Kill the pig! Cut his throat! Kill the pig! Bash him in!'" Chapter 7, Page 104