A theme of regret could also be present. Maybe she has some unfulfilled dreams or things she didn't say in time, and her last wishes are an attempt to make up for that. Also, the theme of mortality is obvious. The fact that she is dying and making these last wishes makes the readers confront the idea of death and the finality of life. For example, if she wishes to see a sunset one last time, it shows her awareness of the limited time she has left.
In this short story, perhaps the dying girl's wishes serve as a way to show her true self. If she has always been quiet or reserved, her last wishes could be bold and unexpected. It might also be used to evoke emotions in the readers, making them think about how precious life is and how we should cherish the time we have with our loved ones. Maybe her last wish is something as simple as having a particular flower by her bedside.
Another theme might be change. If it's the last day of an era, it shows how things are about to transform. For example, a society that has been stagnant for a long time may be on the verge of a big shift after this last day, and the story could explore the resistance or acceptance of that change.
Another theme could be truth. Maybe the last answer is the truth that has been hidden throughout the story. It could be a moment of realization for the characters or the readers. For example, in a mystery short story, the last answer might be the true identity of a mysterious figure. Also, redemption could be a theme. The last answer might be a way for a character to redeem themselves, to make up for past mistakes or wrongdoings. It could be a powerful moment of self - discovery and growth for that character.
Love and loss could be a theme. The last contact might signify the end of a relationship, and the story could explore the emotions that come with that. For example, regret, longing, or acceptance.
One possible theme could be greed. If the king wishes for too much personal gain, it shows the negative consequences of greed. For example, if he wishes for all the gold in the world and then loses his friends and the trust of his people.
One main theme is self - discovery. As the girl's wishes come true, she discovers more about herself. Another is the idea of 'be careful what you wish for'. Her 16 wishes bring both good and bad things, so it shows the consequences of hasty wishing.
One possible theme could be hope. Even though the boy is dying, Santa's presence might bring a glimmer of hope in his difficult time.
The themes could include sacrifice. A person in this kind of story may sacrifice a lot, like their own values or dreams, just to belong. Also, acceptance is a theme. It could be about the struggle to be accepted by a certain group or society. In addition, self - discovery could be a theme. Through the process of trying to belong, the character might discover new things about themselves.
One possible theme could be memory. The girl in the picture might trigger memories for the characters, either good or bad.
Some possible themes could be knowledge and learning. Since it's set in a library, the girl might be on a journey of self - education. Another theme could be friendship or community as she may interact with other library - goers or librarians.