Writing Your "Message Story"

"What's the message you want to impart in your story?" 

I've seen this question, in various iterations, posted numerous times; not only on social media sites like Reddit, but in actual articles written as author advice. I find it puzzling.

All novels have a theme, but usually it's an unintentional one. I mean, the writer didn't set out to write a story around a theme, unless it's the age-old good versus evil. Even that one, which is used in police procedurals and thrillers, and I suppose even in fantasy, has more layers to it. A well written novel, regardless of genre, will have underlying themes that an adept writer creates with intention, but most of us "amateurs" don't. Case in point--the "flawed hero". We assign him specific flaws or weaknesses unconsciously. We're just creating a well-rounded character (we believe). 

I can think of nothing more boring than to land on a theme and write a story around it. Especially a theme about a social issue. If you're a natural activist, don't write a novel; write a magazine column or create a Substack. A reader doesn't pick up a novel to be "educated". They sink into it to be transported; to escape reality.

Most writers just want to tell a good story. If in the end that story reveals something, some universal truth, all the better for the writer and the reader. Beware those "experts" who push a writing agenda. As you know, experts are those who tell someone how to write, as opposed to people who can write.

No one likes being preached to. Don't do it.