iceberg theory

The iceberg theory, developed by writer Ernest Hemingway, suggests that a story's visible elements—like plot and dialogue—are just the tip. The deeper, unspoken parts—such as underlying themes, emotions, and motivations—form the larger, submerged portion. Just as most of an iceberg's mass lies beneath the surface, a story’s true depth exists beneath what is explicitly shown. This approach encourages writers to subtly imply meaning, allowing readers to infer and engage more deeply with the narrative’s underlying significance.