What is another way to refer to the main idea of a story?

The main idea of a story is often referred to as the central point. This term encapsulates the essence of what the story is fundamentally about, focusing on the primary message or argument that the author is trying to convey. It serves as the foundation for understanding the plot, characters, and overall narrative structure.

While the other terms mentioned also relate to aspects of a story, they do not specifically capture the concept of the main idea as accurately. Supporting details enhance the main idea but are not the idea itself. The topic provides a general subject matter but lacks the depth of meaning associated with the central point. The theme, while closely related, refers more to the underlying message or moral of the story rather than the central point directly. Hence, referring to the main idea as the central point provides a clear and precise understanding of a story's principal focus.