The setting of the small story can also help in conveying the theme. A desolate setting might be used to convey a theme of loneliness or despair. It sets the mood and gives context to the theme.
Symbolism is another powerful tool in a small story for theme conveyance. A particular object or event might symbolize a larger concept related to the theme. For example, a broken mirror could symbolize a shattered relationship in a story about love and loss. This helps to subtly get the theme across to the reader without being too obvious.
The story may use a series of events to show how wrong assumptions based on appearance can be. It could start by showing how the other characters in the story view someone in a negative light just because of how they look. Then, as the story unfolds, it reveals the good qualities of that person through their actions and words. This contrast between the initial perception and the real nature of the character effectively conveys the message of not judging a book by its cover. For instance, the character might be someone who has a scruffy appearance but is extremely intelligent and helpful when the situation calls for it.
Through its music. The game has a very melancholic soundtrack that sets the mood for the sad story. The tunes are slow and often have a sense of longing or loss in them, which immediately makes the players feel the sadness.
The relationships between the characters play a big role. The Gelflings' unity against the Skeksis shows the power of cooperation in achieving a greater good which is part of the story's meaning.
The setting of the game itself is a big part of it. The games are designed to be cruel and deadly, and yet the players have no real choice but to participate. This shows the power imbalance and the immoral nature of the system that forces people into such situations, thus conveying the moral about the exploitation of the poor by the rich.
Through the relationship between the two main characters. Their interactions show that love doesn't care about social status. For example, when Edward takes Vivian to high - society events, they face some prejudice but still hold on to their feelings for each other.
It conveys its moral through the father's stories. As he tells these elaborate tales, the son begins to see the deeper meaning behind them. For example, the father's stories about facing giants and witches are really about facing the challenges in life bravely.
Through the characters' growth. For example, if the moral is about courage, the characters start off scared of the ghost but gradually become braver as they learn more about it.
A metamorphosis story usually conveys its themes through the transformation itself. For example, in 'The Metamorphosis' by Kafka, Gregor's change into an insect shows his alienation from society and family. The physical change is a symbol of his emotional and social state.
The story of King Midas conveys its moral mainly through the consequences of his actions. His wish for the golden touch led to disastrous results. For example, when he touched his food, it turned to gold and he couldn't eat. By showing these negative outcomes, it warns the readers about the perils of greed.
A satirical novel often uses exaggeration. For example, in 'Gulliver's Travels', the size differences between Gulliver and the inhabitants of the different lands are extreme, which exaggerates the differences in human behavior and values. This makes the readers clearly see the flaws being satirized.