The themes in 'across the bridge' as an ironic short story could include the futility of hope. The bridge might represent hope for the characters, but the irony could lie in the fact that this hope is ultimately futile. Also, there could be a theme of misjudgment. The characters misjudge what lies across the bridge, thinking it will be better, when in reality it is not. This shows how our perceptions can be wrong and lead to ironic situations.
In this short story, themes related to the unpredictability of life could be present. The bridge serves as a symbol of a journey or a change, but the ironic nature of the story implies that life doesn't always go as planned. Additionally, a theme of self - discovery through disappointment might be there. As the characters cross the bridge and face the unexpected, they may learn more about themselves in the face of disappointment. For example, they might realize that their desires were based on false assumptions, which is a common aspect of ironic stories where the characters' expectations are shattered.
The story 'across the bridge' might be ironic in various ways. For example, the bridge could symbolize a transition that is not as straightforward as it seems. It could be a physical bridge that represents a passage from one state of mind or situation to another, but with unexpected twists. Maybe the characters think they are going towards a positive change by crossing the bridge, but in fact, they end up in a worse situation, which creates the irony.
One main theme could be false hope. Since it's ironic, the characters may have hope as they approach crossing the bridge, but it's dashed in the end.
One main theme is isolation. The setting across the bridge seems to isolate the characters. Another is the struggle with identity. Characters are trying to figure out who they are in the context of their situation.
I'm not sure specifically as I haven't read this exact short story. But generally, it might be about a journey or an experience related to crossing a bridge. Maybe it's about a character who crosses the bridge to reach a new place, face a new challenge, or meet someone on the other side.
In 'across the bridge' as an ironical short story, perhaps the act of crossing the bridge symbolizes a journey that is expected to lead to something positive, but in an ironic twist, it may lead to the opposite. For example, the character might think they are escaping to freedom but end up in a more trapped situation on the other side of the bridge.
One aspect to consider in 'across the bridge' as a modern short story is its setting. The bridge might symbolize a transition or a boundary. It could represent the divide between different worlds, like the old and the new, or the known and the unknown. This kind of setting can create a sense of mystery and anticipation for the reader.
The simplicity of its concept. Just the idea of crossing a bridge can hold so many different meanings and interpretations, which makes it a very rich starting point for a story. It allows the reader to bring their own experiences and ideas to the reading.
I don't know as I haven't read it. It could be a single protagonist like a traveler who is crossing the bridge.
One of the key elements in 'Across the Bridge' is the atmosphere. Greene is a master at creating a tense and somewhat claustrophobic mood. The bridge itself could be seen as a metaphor for the divide between different worlds or states of being. The protagonist's journey across it is not just a physical one but also an emotional and psychological journey.
It could be about change. The bridge over the creek might symbolize a transition point, and the owl could be a sign of the impending change. Maybe the story is about how the characters deal with the changes that come their way in that particular setting.