A short story is a compact form of storytelling. It usually focuses on a single event or a limited number of characters. Examples include 'The Necklace' by Guy de Maupassant and 'Hills Like White Elephants' by Ernest Hemingway.
A short story is a relatively short piece of fiction. It often conveys a theme or message in a concise way. Some examples are 'The Yellow Wallpaper' by Charlotte Perkins Gilman and 'A Sound of Thunder' by Ray Bradbury.
There are many examples. Consider a short story where a person is constantly chasing a white rabbit, which is a metaphor for chasing an elusive dream. Or a story where a character's attic filled with old, dusty boxes is a metaphor for their past memories that they are either trying to forget or revisit. Also, a story where a character is a lighthouse in a stormy sea could represent someone who is a guiding light or source of hope in a difficult situation.
Some examples could be 'A magical journey begins', 'Love found in the chaos', 'The mystery unfolds'.
In the story 'The hen and the pen', the short 'e' in 'hen' and 'pen' is an example. The hen laid eggs in the pen.
There's 'The Ugly Duckling', which shows how an initially outcast creature transforms into a beautiful swan. It's a story of hope and acceptance.
How about a story where a person finds a forgotten letter that brings back happy memories? It's a sweet and brief tale.
One could be a story of two strangers meeting by chance on a train and instantly connecting. They spend a few hours sharing their dreams and fears, and part ways with a promise to keep in touch.
A short good story could be 'The Ugly Duckling'. It shows how appearances can be deceiving and how one's true worth is revealed over time. The transformation of the duckling is heartwarming and inspiring.
One funny short story could be about a clumsy chef who keeps making hilarious mistakes in the kitchen.
One funny short story could be about a person who gets lost in a strange town and has all sorts of hilarious misadventures trying to find their way back.
Adventure and self-discovery can be themes. Like a character going on an exciting journey and learning a lot about themselves along the way.