One common theme is the connection to the land. Since New Mexico has a diverse and unique landscape, many stories are centered around the mountains, deserts, and rivers. For example, stories about how certain natural features came to be.
Another theme is cultural heritage. The stories often deal with the unique cultures in New Mexico, like Native American or Hispanic cultures, showing their traditions, values, and how they are passed down through generations. For example, some stories might focus on traditional ceremonies or family heirlooms. In addition, the theme of survival also appears. Characters in the stories face various challenges, whether it's the harsh desert environment or personal hardships, and they strive to survive and thrive. This can be seen in stories where characters have to overcome poverty or difficult family situations.
One common theme is the clash between different cultures. With its history of Native American, Spanish, and Anglo - American influences, there are often stories about cultural misunderstandings and reconciliations. Another theme is survival in a harsh environment, given its arid and unforgiving landscapes.
There's also a story about the Santo Niño de Atocha. In New Mexico folk tradition, the Santo Niño is seen as a protector. The story goes that during times of hardship, the Santo Niño would appear to help the people. It's a story that has been passed down through generations and is an important part of the local religious and cultural heritage.
Love and family are common themes. In many folk and stories, the love between characters, like a romantic love between a hero and a heroine, or the deep family love, drives the plot. For example, in some European folk tales, a young man goes on a dangerous journey to save his family from an evil force.
One common theme could be the connection between the detective and the land. Since it's set in New Mexico, the unique landscape and environment might play a big role in the story, like how the detective navigates through deserts or mountains. Another theme could be the clash between traditional Indian values and modern society.
Another theme might be the connection to the land. If Bingham has a unique geographical location or was the site of some important event related to the land, like an ancient burial ground or a place of great significance to native tribes, that could be a theme in the ghost story. The spirits could be protecting or being tied to that land in some way. Also, the theme of warning could be present. The ghost might be seen as a sign or warning of impending danger, perhaps related to some natural disasters that Bingham is prone to.
One common theme is loss. For example, in many stories, characters lose their loved ones, like in 'The Little Match Girl' where the girl loses her life. Another theme is unrequited love. Similar to 'The Crane Wife', where the relationship ends unhappily due to broken trust.
One common theme is the connection with nature. For example, many stories feature animals as important characters, like the eagle which is a symbol of power in Mexican folklore. Another theme is the struggle between good and evil, just like in the story of 'La Llorona' where the woman's actions represent evil and the idea of redemption or the search for lost souls represents the good side.
One common theme is the connection between humans and nature. In many stories, animals or natural elements play important roles, like in 'Momotaro' where the animals help the boy. Another theme is the idea of karma or rewards for good deeds. For example, Urashima Taro is rewarded for saving the turtle.
One common theme is the importance of community. In many African folk stories, the characters work together to overcome challenges, like in the story of Anansi the Spider. Another theme is the connection with nature. Animals often represent different human qualities. For example, the wise elephant might symbolize wisdom and leadership. Also, moral lessons are a big part of it, teaching things like honesty and kindness.