The contrast between the joyous Christmas season and the dark nature of mystery is another theme. Christmas is a time of celebration, but in these fictions, there's often a murder or a theft. Writers play on this contrast to create a unique atmosphere, for example, in 'The Adventure of the Blue Carbuncle', the search for the jewel happens against the backdrop of the Christmas cheer in London.
Family secrets are also a big theme. During Christmas, families come together, and in mystery fictions like 'Hercule Poirot's Christmas', it's often the family gathering that hides many secrets. The mystery then revolves around uncovering these family secrets that may have been buried for years.
The contrast between the joyous Christmas season and the dark act of murder is also a typical theme. The bright lights, presents, and celebration provide a sharp contrast to the grim nature of the crime. For example, in many such novels, the murderer may strike during a Christmas party or while the family is opening presents. It adds an element of shock and irony to the story.
Redemption can be a theme as well. In some Christmas mystery short stories, a character who has committed a wrong may find a way to redeem themselves during the Christmas season. This could be related to the mystery they are involved in, like they were wrongly accused and through solving the mystery, they prove their innocence and also become a better person.
Well, the theme of hope is often present. Christmas is seen as a time of new beginnings and hope for the future. For example, in stories where characters are facing difficulties but then find joy during the Christmas season. Also, magic and wonder are common. The idea that something extraordinary can happen on Christmas, like in 'The Polar Express' where the boy takes a magical train ride. And of course, the celebration of love, whether it's romantic love or the love within a family.
One common theme is the spirit of giving. For example, in 'A Christmas Carol', Scrooge's transformation involves him becoming more giving. Another theme is the magic of Christmas. In 'The Polar Express', the magic train ride and the visit to the North Pole show this. Also, redemption is a theme, like in 'How the Grinch Stole Christmas!' where the Grinch changes for the better.
Well, secrecy is a big theme. People are hiding things during Christmas in these fictions, whether it's a present - related secret or something more sinister like a crime they committed. Another is the idea of isolation. Even though Christmas is a time of togetherness, some characters in the crime fiction might feel isolated, and this can be related to their motives for committing a crime or being a victim. Also, the theme of justice. Christmas is a time of giving and goodwill, but the stories often focus on ensuring justice is served for the crime that has occurred.
The theme of love is everywhere in Christmas fan fiction. It could be romantic love, like two characters falling in love during the Christmas holidays. Or it could be platonic love among friends or family members. Another common theme is the transformation of a character. Maybe a grumpy character becomes kind and jolly because of the Christmas spirit. And of course, the wonder of Christmas. The stories often try to capture that sense of child - like wonder that we all associate with Christmas.
Love and family are also important themes. Christian Christmas fictions often emphasize the importance of love within the family and how the Christmas season can bring families closer together. This is in line with the Christian value of loving one's neighbor as oneself, where the family is seen as the first 'neighbor' to be loved.
Sin and redemption also play a role. The mystery might be related to a past sin that needs to be uncovered and redeemed. The characters may find themselves involved in a journey of not only solving the mystery but also coming to terms with their own or others' sins in a Catholic moral framework.
One common theme is spiritual growth. The characters often face mysteries that force them to question their faith and grow spiritually. For example, they might be faced with a strange event that seems to defy explanation, and through their search for answers, they come closer to God.
One common theme is identity. Gay characters often have to navigate their sexual identity while solving the mystery. For example, they might face discrimination or misunderstanding within the context of the mystery plot.