Answer:
The best answer, indeed, to answer the question: A story´s theme is not usually stated outright, but it can be found by studying the story´s:___, would be: Plot.
Explanation:
In very few ocassions, if never, will a story´s themes be simply displayed on the outset of a story. The reason for this is that most authors wish the reader to work out to understand what these themes are, and to do that, the reader needs the details and ideas splayed throughout the entire story. These themes are almost like the clues that will not only entertain the reader, but also peak his interest, so he will continue reading until the end. This is why most authors, instead of simply stating his theme or themes, spread them out throughout their plot in the form of small clues, or details, that will encourage the reader to continue reading till the end.
