The 'mystery of the memory loss' is often a big part of these fanfictions. Writers like to create a sense of mystery around what caused Draco's memory loss. It could be a curse, a potion gone wrong, or some other magical mishap. This mystery then drives the plot as Harry and others try to figure out how to fix it.
One common trope is the 'caretaker' role. Usually, Harry takes on this role, looking after Draco as he struggles with his memory loss. It allows for a lot of tender moments between them.
The 'rediscovering love' trope is also popular. Since Draco has lost his memory, he and Harry get to essentially start over in their relationship. They might re - fall in love in a new way, which can be really sweet and romantic. Another trope is the 'facing the past'. Draco may have to confront parts of his past that he had forgotten, which can lead to some interesting character development.
One great fanfiction with this theme is 'Fading Memories'. It beautifully explores Draco's struggle as he loses his memory and how it affects his relationship with Harry. The story is full of emotional moments and really delves deep into their characters.
A possible plot is that Draco loses his memory and finds himself in an entirely different environment. Maybe he's found by a group of outcasts or muggles who have no idea about the wizarding world. As he tries to piece together his past, he discovers new things about himself and the world around him that he had never considered before. He could also develop new relationships outside of the pure - blood wizarding society he was used to, which would change his perspective once his memory returns.
The memory loss can be a catalyst for Draco's growth. He has to re - evaluate his identity. He might discover that he was not truly happy with the person he was before. As he struggles to remember, he could develop traits like humility and empathy. For instance, if he was once arrogant towards house - elves, during his memory loss, he could interact with them in a more equal and kind way. When his memory comes back, he may choose to keep these new - found qualities, changing his character for the better.
In these fanfictions, a typical trope is the power dynamic shift. Since Harry was the 'chosen one' and Draco from a powerful pure - blood family, there's often a play on who has the upper hand in the relationship, especially in an intimate context. Additionally, the trope of self - discovery is common for both characters. Harry might be discovering new aspects of his sexuality, and Draco might be realizing his true feelings for Harry that go beyond rivalry. And of course, there's the trope of forbidden love, which adds an element of excitement and danger to the story.
Another theme is the exploration of trauma. Draco's hurt can be the result of various traumas, such as his family situation or the events during the wizarding war. Fanfictions often dig deep into how these traumas have shaped him and how he copes with them, especially in relation to Harry. It can be very intense as it shows the psychological impact on Draco.
One common theme is jealousy. Since Draco is possessive, jealousy often plays a big role. He might get jealous of others getting close to Harry. Another theme is the power dynamic. Draco's possessiveness can be related to his desire for power in the relationship with Harry.
The theme of self - discovery is quite common too. Both Harry and Draco are on a path of self - discovery. For Harry, it might be about understanding his feelings for Draco which are different from what he expected. For Draco, it could be about finding a new identity outside of his family's expectations. And of course, friendship that turns into something more is a theme that runs through a lot of these fanfictions.
One common theme is redemption. Draco, often seen as a former antagonist, finds redemption through his role as a healer, especially in relation to Harry. Another theme is forgiveness. Harry has to forgive Draco for their past differences.
Redemption is often a theme too. The de - aged Draco can be seen as a chance for him to start over, to be different from the somewhat villainous character he was before. This ties in with the relationship with Harry, as Harry might be more open to this new, younger Draco. It also gives the author a chance to rewrite some of the negative aspects of Draco's character arc in a more positive light.
Love against all odds is also a big theme. Given their past as rivals and coming from different sides of the wizarding war, their relationship defies the expectations of the wizarding community. Their love has to overcome a lot of prejudice and misunderstandings.