One common theme could be change. Since 'by and by' implies the passage of time, stories might focus on how characters or situations change over time. For example, a character might start off naive and become wise as the story progresses.
Growth is also a common theme. As time passes 'by and by', characters can experience personal growth. They might overcome their fears, learn new skills, or develop better relationships. This growth is often a central part of the short story's narrative.
Love, friendship, and self-discovery are common themes. These often form the core of many short stories, exploring the human experience in various ways.
Love is a very common theme. It can be romantic love, like in stories where two characters overcome obstacles to be together. Another common theme is friendship. Stories often show how friends support each other through difficult times. Also, the theme of death and loss is frequently explored, where characters deal with the pain of losing someone or something dear to them.
Common themes could include forbidden desires, self-discovery through sexual experiences, or the impact of sex on relationships. Different stories might focus on different aspects, though.
Isolation is also typical. When there is darkness, characters often feel alone. They might be cut off from others, like in a town surrounded by a dark fog where no one can get in or out. This makes their situation seem more desperate. Moreover, the theme of hope often emerges as well. Despite the overwhelming darkness, there is usually a glimmer of hope that the characters hold on to, whether it's finding a way to escape the darkness or bringing back the light.
One common theme is survival. When a character is trapped, they have to fight for their survival, whether it's against the elements, another person, or their own mental state. For example, in 'The Pit and the Pendulum', the man has to figure out how to escape the dungeon and the approaching pendulum to survive.
Fear is a very common theme. Monsters often represent the unknown and the things that people are afraid of. Another theme is heroism, like in stories where a character faces the monster bravely. Also, mystery. The origin of the monster or how to defeat it usually has an element of mystery.
Trust is a big theme. In these stories, the husband's trust in his wife as she explores new experiences is a central aspect. It shows how trust can be maintained or even strengthened in different relationship setups.
Seasonal changes, especially fall when the maple leaves turn red and start to fall, are frequently part of maple short stories. It can represent change, the passage of time, or a sense of melancholy. For example, in a story, a character might be sad as the maple leaves fall because it reminds them of a lost love or a past time that can't be regained. Also, the maple tree can be a symbol of stability in a changing world, like a family home or a place of comfort that remains constant despite the changing seasons around it.
One common theme is nostalgia. People often look back on shared memories during a reunion. Another is the renewal of relationships, like when old friends or family members rekindle their bonds. Also, there can be a theme of growth, as they see how each other has changed over time.
Miracle is a common theme. For example, the miracle of the oil lasting eight days. It represents the divine intervention during Hanukkah.