One could be a story where the green man is a magical forest guardian. He protects the forest from those who would harm it, using his unique powers that are connected to the natural elements.
A short story might feature a green man as a symbol of environmental change. He appears in a small town that has been polluting the local river. Through his presence, he makes the townspeople realize the importance of nature and they start to clean up their act. It's a story about environmental awareness and transformation.
There could be a story about a green man who is an alien from a far - off planet. He comes to Earth and has to learn about human culture and values. He befriends a group of children and they teach each other about their respective worlds. This would be a story of friendship and cross - cultural understanding.
Another story could be about a young artist who keeps seeing a vision of the green man in his dreams. The green man in this story represents the artist's connection to his creativity and the natural world. As he tries to paint what he sees in his dreams, he discovers new ways to express himself and also becomes more in tune with nature around him.
Another good one is 'Goodbye to Berlin' by Christopher Isherwood. There are elements in it that can be seen as an exploration of different sexualities and relationships, including those that could be read as lesbian - like relationships. It gives a great insight into the lives and feelings of the characters in a complex social setting.
Another good one is 'The Necklace' by Guy de Maupassant. It's about a woman who borrows a diamond necklace for a ball, loses it, and then spends years in poverty trying to replace it. In the end, there's an unexpected twist that makes you think about vanity and the true cost of things. This story is full of irony and social commentary.
One great example is 'Ms. Marvel' short stories. They focus on Kamala Khan, a young Muslim girl who gains superpowers and uses them to protect her community and fight against evil. It's a story full of empowerment and cultural exploration.
One common theme is power dynamics. Often, there might be a dominant female or male character that adds an element of excitement. Another theme could be exploration of new experiences, like a character trying something they've never done before sexually. Also, the theme of secrecy or forbidden love can be present, which intensifies the allure.
Another good one is 'Fingersmith' by Sarah Waters. It has a complex plot with lesbian characters and is more about mystery, betrayal, and love in a historical context rather than being erotica - centered.
Contests are another avenue. For example, the 'Pushcart Prize' accepts submissions of short stories. Participating in such contests not only gives you a chance to get published but also to gain recognition in the literary world. Also, some universities or colleges have their own literary publications that accept submissions from outside their institutions, which can be a good place to submit non - erotica short stories.
Classic fairy tales can be a good substitute too. Tales like 'Cinderella' and 'Snow White' have been loved for generations. They often carry moral lessons and are full of charming characters and magical elements.
These stories might explore the relationship between humans and monsters from a non - sexual perspective. It could be about a battle of wits or a journey of understanding. For instance, a story could be about a human trying to outsmart a wily monster in order to save their village. The characters in such stories are developed in terms of their courage, intelligence, and moral values.
A jilted guy might start writing a journal. He writes down all his feelings, his memories of the relationship, and his hopes for the future. As he writes, he gains clarity. He also starts to exercise regularly to improve his physical and mental state. Eventually, he becomes a more confident and independent person, ready to face new relationships in a more mature way.