Family and heritage are common. For example, in many stories, characters' actions are influenced by their family's past or cultural traditions. Another theme is the relationship between humans and technology, as seen in stories that explore how advanced technology affects Asian societies.
One common theme is the relationship between tradition and modernity. In many Asian speculative stories, there's a struggle or a harmony between old cultural values and new, often Western - influenced, modern ideas. For example, in some Japanese anime - based speculative fictions, the coexistence of ancient spiritual beliefs and advanced technology is explored. Another theme is the impact of overpopulation. Given Asia's large population, stories might speculate on how to deal with limited resources and overcrowding, like in 'Battle Royale' where extreme measures are taken due to a sense of overpopulation. Also, the idea of the collective vs. the individual is common. Asian cultures often emphasize the group, and in speculative stories, this can be seen in how characters interact and make decisions in a world that might be falling apart or changing drastically.
One common theme is future society. For example, how society might be structured in a post - apocalyptic world or in a highly advanced technological future. Another is alien encounters, like in many stories that speculate about first contact with extraterrestrial beings.
One common theme is the intersection of the traditional and the modern. This can be seen when Filipino folklore elements are merged with contemporary settings.
One well - known collection is 'The Paper Menagerie and Other Stories' by Ken Liu. His stories often blend elements of Asian culture with speculative fiction concepts, exploring themes like family, identity, and the impact of technology.
One common theme is totalitarian control. In many dystopian speculative fiction works, there is a powerful regime that suppresses the freedom of the people. Another theme is environmental degradation. For example, in some stories, the world has been so polluted that it's barely habitable. Also, the loss of individual identity often occurs, where people are reduced to mere numbers or cogs in a machine.
One idea could be a world where people can trade memories. A young protagonist discovers that her family has been involved in an illegal memory trading ring. She has to decide whether to expose them and risk losing her family or keep the secret and let the unethical practice continue.
A story about a world where dreams are visible to everyone. A shy artist discovers that his nightmares are being used by an evil corporation to create fear - based entertainment. He decides to fight back by creating beautiful, positive dream - art that counteracts the negativity. It could explore the power of art and the importance of positive thinking.
Another theme is the use of traditional Asian settings to add an exotic element. For instance, a story might be set in a Japanese onsen (hot spring) or a Chinese imperial palace. These settings create a unique atmosphere that enhances the allure of the erotic elements. The architecture, the clothing, and the cultural practices in these settings are often intertwined with the relationships and sexual undertones in the story.
Start with a unique and thought-provoking idea. Build interesting characters and a compelling plot. Pay attention to world-building and creating a sense of mystery or wonder.
In African Asian short stories, one common theme is the impact of external forces. For African stories, colonialism has left a deep mark, and many stories deal with the aftermath of that, like the loss of cultural heritage and the fight for independence. In Asian stories, Western influence and globalization are often explored, for example, how it affects the younger generation's values. Additionally, stories from both regions often touch on the theme of community, showing how individuals are part of a larger social fabric.