The passage of time is also a common theme. Barbershops are often places that have been around for a long time. Stories might show how the barber business has changed over the years, from the old - fashioned scissors - only days to the modern salons with all the latest gadgets. Also, barbers may see the aging of their regular customers and the cycle of life in their community.
Another theme is the idea of trust. When a person sits in a barber's chair, they are in a vulnerable position. In short stories, this can be used to build tension or show a relationship of trust between the barber and the customer. A barber might hold the secrets of the town as people often talk while getting their hair cut.
One common theme is transformation. Just like how a barber transforms a person's look with a haircut, the stories often show a character's internal or external transformation. For example, a person getting a haircut before a big event in their life, like a job interview, and the haircut gives them new confidence.
A third theme might be skill and craftsmanship. Barbers are skilled at their trade, and stories could focus on the artistry involved in cutting hair. This could include a barber competing in a haircutting competition, or a young apprentice learning the ropes from an experienced barber.
Another one could be a simple fictional story about a barber who has been in the business for decades. He has seen generations of men in his shop. One day, a young boy comes in for his first haircut, and the barber reflects on how the times have changed and yet some things, like the pride in a good haircut, remain the same.
One common theme is identity. Hair can be a big part of how a person sees themselves or how others perceive them. For example, in many cultures, long hair on women is seen as a sign of femininity. So a short story might explore how a woman feels when she cuts her hair short and how it changes her sense of self.
Another theme is sacrifice. Sometimes one sister will sacrifice her own desires or opportunities for the sake of her sister. It could be something like giving up a scholarship so that the other sister can go to college. There's also the theme of forgiveness. Sisters might have a falling - out over something, but eventually, they forgive each other and their bond is restored.
One common theme is self - destruction. The characters often engage in behaviors that harm themselves, like ruining their health or relationships because of their alcohol use.
One common theme is redemption. Thieves often start out bad but then through some event or encounter, they change their ways. For example, they might meet a kind person who makes them see the error of their ways. Another theme is the allure of wealth. Thieves are usually attracted to valuable things, and the stories might explore why they are so desperate for material possessions. Also, there can be a theme of secrecy and stealth. Since they are thieves, they operate in the shadows, and this can create a sense of mystery in the story.
Longing and separation are also common. For example, in some stories, the lovers are separated by distance or circumstances, and their love is tested. Also, the theme of unrequited love often appears. There are stories where one person loves another deeply, but the feelings are not reciprocated. This creates a lot of emotional turmoil and can be very poignant.
Friendship is another common theme. In many boy - centered short stories, boys form deep friendships. Like in 'Bridge to Terabithia', Jess Aarons and Leslie Burke create a magical world together. Their friendship helps them both deal with the difficulties in their real lives and also enriches their childhoods.
Another theme is discovery. The moon is still full of mysteries, and short stories often explore the idea of characters making new discoveries on the moon. This could be scientific discoveries or personal revelations about themselves. For instance, a scientist might find a new type of rock on the moon that changes his view on the origin of the solar system.
Growth and change are often themes in Effie short stories. She starts off in one state, perhaps a bit naive or unsure, and through the events of the story, she matures and becomes more confident. This could be shown through her dealing with a difficult family situation or making a big decision about her future.