Which option is NOT a theme?

• A. Struggle against nature
• B. The power of positive thinking
• C. Initiation into manhood
• D. Selfishness and greed

Answer: (D)

A theme is a universal idea about life or human nature that the story conveys through its events and characters. In Hatchet, the big ideas are survival, self-reliance, and growth as Brian learns to cope with the wilderness and mature through the experience.

Struggle against nature is a clear theme because the narrative revolves around Brian facing hunger, cold, hunger, danger, and the need to problem-solve and adapt in order to stay alive. Initiation into manhood fits as well because Brian moves from a surprised, passive boy into someone who makes tough choices, takes responsibility, and becomes more self-sufficient.

The idea described as the power of positive thinking isn’t the strongest through-line of the book. While hope and determination matter, the story emphasizes practical action—finding food, making tools, building fire, and using what’s available—more than simply thinking positively.

Selfishness and greed, however, isn’t a central message Hatchet aims to teach. The story focuses on survival and personal growth, not on exploring moral flaws related to greed. So the option that centers on selfishness and greed isn’t a core theme of the book.