Nature and human connection is a common theme. The lake represents nature's beauty and power, and characters often find themselves reflecting on their lives while near it. It can be a place of solitude and self - examination.
Mystery is another theme. The lake could hold secrets beneath its surface, either literally in the form of hidden objects or figuratively in terms of the secrets of the characters who have a connection to it. Some novels might use the lake as a setting for a mystery that unfolds slowly, with the lake being an integral part of the mystery's allure.
Love and loss can also be themes. A lake might be a place where a couple had a special moment, and later when things change, it becomes a place full of memories. It's like a silent witness to the characters' emotional rollercoaster. For instance, in some novels, a character might return to the lake after a breakup to find closure. In more complex stories, the lake could symbolize the passage of time. As seasons change around the lake, it mirrors the changes in the characters' lives, their growth, and their decline. It can be a constant in a world of flux, a reminder of the impermanence of life.
Love and relationships are also common themes. The peaceful and often secluded setting of hot springs can be a great backdrop for budding romances or for mending broken relationships. Characters may meet new people at the hot springs, or they may use the time at the hot springs to reconnect with old friends or lovers. The warm and soothing environment of the hot springs can create an atmosphere conducive to emotional bonding.
One common theme is starting anew. The characters are often given a second chance at life in a different world, and they can use this opportunity to rewrite their destinies. For example, in 'That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime', the protagonist can build a new life and society as a slime. Another theme is power acquisition. Reincarnated characters usually gain new abilities or powers in their new forms, which they use to navigate the challenges of the new world.
Love and self - discovery are very common themes. These novels often show the characters trying to understand their feelings towards other girls and coming to terms with their sexual identity. For example, in 'Citrus', Yuzu has to figure out her new and unexpected feelings for Mei.
Another theme is the idea of sacrifice. In many Japanese love stories about housewives, they might sacrifice their own happiness or opportunities for love for the sake of their family's reputation or the well - being of their children. For instance, a housewife might give up a chance to be with the person she truly loves to keep the family intact. This reflects the traditional values in Japanese society.
Another theme is the struggle for identity. In these novels, characters often grapple with their Japanese heritage while also trying to be seen as Americans. In 'Snow Falling on Cedars', the main character's Japanese - American identity is a central part of the story as he navigates a society that still holds prejudice against him due to his ethnicity.
One common theme is self - discovery. When the protagonist is reincarnated, they often have to figure out who they are in this new life and how to use their past experiences or knowledge. For example, in 'That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime', the protagonist uses his human knowledge to his advantage in the new slime form.
Survival is a common theme. Characters have to find ways to stay alive after being shipwrecked, like finding food and shelter. Another theme could be isolation. Being shipwrecked often means being alone or with a small group on an uninhabited island, which can lead to psychological changes. For example, they might question their values and beliefs.
A lot of Japanese novels deal with social issues. For instance, 'Battle Royale' can be seen as a commentary on society and youth. Family relationships are also a common theme. In 'All About Lily Chou - Chou', the family situation of the characters affects their growth and development. Additionally, there is the theme of the search for meaning in life. 'Kafka on the Shore' has the characters constantly looking for their purpose in a rather strange and complex world.
One common theme is the struggle with identity. Japanese Americans often have to navigate between their Japanese heritage and American upbringing. For example, in many novels, characters feel torn between the traditional values of their Japanese families and the modern, Western values of the United States.
One common theme is the breakdown of society. For example, in 'Battle Royale', the social order has degraded to the point where the government sanctions such cruel games for its own purposes. It shows how institutions can fail and lead to a world of chaos.