Side Tracked - Big Time

Here I am, happily working away, browsing writers blogs as I wait for technology to catchup and I come across an interesting blog http://jointhebirdies.blogspot.com/

I was reading through the posts and struck this one, which prompted me to browse the comments. After seeing my initial thoughts not touched on I began to post my own comment. In my normal style, it went on and on and on and...well you all know how I go on. So Instead I thought I'd ask the question here and see what everyone thinks.

This is what I posted (or will post momentarily) on Jeremy's site:

First time visitor so I'm sorry for commenting on past postings, but apart from a great description and an exciting sounding book: I have a question (yep, I'm fairly new to all this - well less than two years at seriously trying to write) - What's the theme? Do you have one? Do you care? (Okay, three questions.)

The story sounds awesome and I can see it playing out, but as I move forward in writing stories, people are starting to ask me about themes. Can good stories simply not have themes? Are they inherently there but I just can't see them? (I know, slipped in two more, sorry about that)

And yes, I tend to ramble once I get started ;c)

So what do you think? About themes I mean. Do you think about them when you write, as you write, as you edit, as you outline? Do you not think about them at all?

I've read many times that they (themes) make up an integral part of a story. I've tried to incorporate theme into Wamphyri and on at least opinion, failed somewhat. I've recently sold "Winged Shepherd" which I have problems in nailing a theme too. As soon as it becomes available, I'll post a link. Maybe you can offer me a theme...

I really do ramble don't I?