Another possible theme is the power of relationships. The story may show how interactions with others shape the protagonist. Whether it's family, friends, or strangers, these relationships can have a profound impact on a person's development, self - esteem, and understanding of the world around them.
It could be about a man who is on the verge of achieving something. Maybe he is almost a man in terms of maturity, facing a coming - of - age situation. For example, he might be dealing with the first real responsibilities in life like getting a job or making important decisions for himself.
Power and powerlessness could be a theme. As an 'almost a man', he may not have the power that comes with full adulthood, such as the power to make major decisions independently. He may be at the mercy of others, like his parents or older figures. However, he may also be starting to discover his own power within, like the power of his ideas or his ability to influence those close to him in small ways.
There might be secondary characters as well. These could be people who either support or oppose the protagonist. For example, a mentor figure who guides the main character, or an antagonist who creates obstacles for him or her. Without reading the actual story, it's difficult to be more specific.
Another theme might be growth and development. Maybe the story shows how the character is almost reaching a new level of maturity or personal growth. It could be about the steps he takes and the challenges he faces on this journey towards becoming a 'full' man.
I'm not sure exactly which 'almos a man story' you are referring to. There could be many stories with a title or theme like that. Maybe it's a very specific or local story that I'm not familiar with.
One possible theme could be mortality. Since it's about 'the late man', it might be exploring the concept of death and how it affects the living.
It could also be about transformation. Perhaps the man starts out as an ordinary person but through certain events becomes this 'man of iron'. This would show the potential for growth and change within a person, and how difficult circumstances can shape us into something stronger and more formidable.
As I'm not aware of the exact 'Man Up' short story, it's difficult to determine its theme precisely. However, if we consider the title, it could deal with a male character's transformation. Maybe he starts off as a bit of a coward or irresponsible person, and then through a series of events, he 'mans up'. This could be related to things like standing up for himself or others, learning to be more reliable, or finding the courage to pursue his dreams in a more masculine way, whatever that might mean in the context of the story.
I'm not sure as I haven't read it, but it could be about perseverance if the running man is constantly running in the face of difficulties.
Not having read the'man in the woods short story', it's difficult to define the exact theme. But some common themes in stories set in the woods are exploration, both physical and metaphorical. The man could be exploring the physical space of the woods, but also exploring his own thoughts and emotions. Another potential theme could be fear, as the woods can often be a place associated with the unknown and things that go bump in the night. Or it could be a theme of renewal, with the woods representing a place of new beginnings for the man.