What is the difference between theme and universal theme? Theme refers to the central insight revealed through an American story, while universal theme refers to a theme revealed through a story of foreign origin. Theme refers to a central message that applies to anyone, anywhere, while universal theme is particular to a certain individual, historical context, or culture. Theme refers to the central insight revealed through a story, while universal theme refers to a theme that applies to anyone, anywhere. Theme and universal theme are two terms that have the same definition.