Another theme is the discovery of the true meaning of Christmas. Away from the hustle and bustle of the city, characters in mountain Christmas short stories often realize what really matters during the holidays. They might start out as grumpy or self - centered but through their experiences in the mountains, like helping a lost animal or sharing with a neighbor in need, they understand the spirit of giving and kindness that Christmas represents. This is seen in many such short stories where the mountain setting serves as a backdrop for this self - discovery.
The beauty of nature is also a big theme. The snow - covered mountains, the pine trees, and the clear starry sky at Christmas time all add to the atmosphere. In these stories, nature can be both a challenge, like when there are blizzards, and a source of wonder and beauty. For instance, a story might have a character find peace and the Christmas spirit while looking at the beautiful mountain landscape.
One common theme is isolation. Since it's set in the mountains, characters are often cut off from the outside world, which makes them rely on each other more during Christmas. For example, in many stories, a group of people stuck in a mountain cabin due to snowstorms have to make the best of Christmas together.
Nature. Since it's set in the Smokey Mountains, nature would play a big role. The stories might explore how the beauty of the mountains, the snow, the trees, etc., enhance the Christmas experience and remind people of the magic of the season.
Another theme is self - reliance. They are on their own most of the time. For example, in many stories, they make their own tools from scratch, whether it's a hunting knife or a fishing rod. They don't depend on others and rely on their own skills and knowledge. In 'The Resourceful Mountain Man', the protagonist uses his wits to fix his broken canoe without any outside help. He carves new parts from a nearby tree and uses vines as ropes. This shows how self - reliant mountain men are in these stories.
Love is a major theme in Christmas short stories. In 'The Gift of the Magi', Jim and Della's love for each other is so strong that they are willing to sacrifice their most precious possessions. This self - less love is a characteristic that is often emphasized in Christmas stories, as it reflects the spirit of giving that is central to the holiday.
One common theme is the spirit of giving. Christmas is a time when people share and give, whether it's presents or just kindness. Another theme could be family. Many stories might focus on families coming together during this special time.
The themes in short touching Christmas stories are quite diverse yet related to the essence of Christmas. Generosity is a big one. Characters are shown to be generous not just with presents but also with their time and emotions. For instance, the little girl spending time to make gifts for the old man. Another theme is the discovery of the true meaning of Christmas. Characters often start with a wrong perception, like the old man thinking Christmas is just commercial. But through certain experiences, they come to understand that it's about kindness, love, and sharing. Community spirit is also a theme, as seen when the neighbors come together to help a family in need.
Another common theme is the blend of different cultures. Australia is a multicultural country, and in Christmas short stories, you can see how different cultural traditions interact during the holiday season. For example, how Asian - Australian families incorporate their own New Year traditions (which is also around the same time) with the Christmas celebration, creating a unique and harmonious festive experience.
The theme of lost innocence is common. Christmas is often associated with childhood joy, but in these stories, that innocence is lost. There might be a child who discovers the dark side of Christmas. Another theme is the disruption of family harmony. Instead of a happy family gathering, there are fights, secrets, and supernatural events that tear the family apart. And the concept of a cursed Christmas, where the holiday is marred by some dark force, is also a frequently seen theme.
One common theme is family reunion. In modern Christmas stories, often characters who have been apart come together to celebrate, highlighting the importance of family bonds during the holidays.
Love is a common theme. In many modern Christmas short stories, it's about the love between family members, like in stories where estranged family members come together during Christmas. Another theme is generosity. For example, characters often give selflessly to others during the Christmas season.
The theme of hope is prevalent too. Maybe a character is going through a tough time but Christmas brings new hope. Like a person who lost their job but then gets an unexpected opportunity during the Christmas season, showing that Christmas can be a time of new beginnings.