Question

which characteristic is true of a theme? (1 point)
it is a summary of the plot.
it is not stated by the author outright.
it is not linked to symbols.
it is explained by the author.

Explanation:

A literary theme is an underlying message or central idea that is implied rather than directly stated by the author. It is not a plot summary, often connects to symbols, and is not explicitly explained by the author.

Answer:

It is not stated by the author outright.