What is the author's message in The Scarlet Letter?

Really you are referring to themes. I find that sin, judgment, and hypocrisy to be a major message in the book. Hawthorne's novel consistently calls into question the notion of sin and what is necessary for redemption. Is Hester's initial crime a sin? Has Hester merely done what others do in secret? Check out "Sin and Judgment" in the GradeSaver link below: