Reindeer are often part of a short Christmas story as they pull Santa's sleigh. Christmas bells that ring to announce the arrival of Christmas. And the magic of Christmas wishes. Maybe a child makes a wish on a star on Christmas night and it comes true in a small but wonderful way, like finding a long - lost toy.
One common element is the idea of giving. For example, someone gives a gift or an act of kindness, like in the story where a neighbor gives toys to a poor family. Another is the presence of some sort of magic or miracle, like the ornament turning into a golden star.
The key elements are the angel's visit to Mary, Mary's pregnancy, Joseph's role, the journey to Bethlehem, and Jesus' birth in a manger.
The key elements often include the Christmas season like Christmas Eve or Christmas Day. There's usually some act of kindness, such as giving gifts or helping those in need. And the spirit of Christmas, which is about love, sharing and joy, is also a main part.
Well, in a modern Christmas story, one element could be technology. For example, kids using virtual reality to visit Santa in the North Pole. Another element might be diverse families, like blended families or families with adopted children celebrating together. Also, modern Christmas stories often include shopping online for presents instead of going to the traditional stores.
One of the key elements for a short descriptive Christmas story is the sense of anticipation. You can show this through the children waiting for Santa, like looking out the window for his sleigh. The smell of Christmas is also important, such as the scent of pine from the Christmas tree or the aroma of freshly baked cookies. The weather plays a part too. A cold, snowy night sets the perfect mood, and the contrast between the cold outside and the warmth inside the house, where there might be a crackling fireplace, makes for a great description.
Well, one element could be an unexpected character. For example, a grumpy old bear who usually hibernates during winter but wakes up just in time for Christmas and decides to spread joy instead of growling at everyone. Another element could be a strange location. Like a Christmas celebration in a desert where there's no snow but they still manage to create a magical Christmas with sand sculptures of Santa and reindeer. Also, an unlikely event such as the Christmas tree growing in reverse, getting smaller instead of bigger, but still having all the presents underneath it when it's tiny.
A Christmas mystery short story can include elements like a riddle or a prophecy related to Christmas. For instance, a prophecy that says if a certain bell doesn't ring on Christmas morning, the town will lose its Christmas spirit forever. Mysterious footprints in the snow, perhaps made by a yeti - like creature that is only seen during Christmas. And of course, a character with a hidden agenda, like a jealous relative who wants to ruin Christmas for the family by stealing the Christmas ham and blaming it on a fictional burglar.
One interesting element in a Christmas story could be the magic. For example, in 'The Polar Express', the magic train takes the boy to the North Pole. It's a journey full of wonder and discovery. The idea of Santa's workshop at the North Pole, with elves busily making toys, is also very charming. And the concept of reindeer flying through the sky on Christmas Eve to deliver presents is quite fascinating.
Food is an important element. For example, panettone, a sweet bread filled with dried fruits and raisins, is often part of the Christmas celebration in Italy. It's delicious and shared among family members.
Well, in many native Christmas stories, there is often the presence of snow. Snow-covered landscapes create a magical and cold atmosphere, which is very much associated with Christmas. For example, Santa Claus travels through the snow - covered areas in his sleigh.