One common theme is the power of first impressions. In many stories, the initial encounter between the two characters is so strong that it sets the stage for their love. Another is the idea of overcoming obstacles. Whether it's family differences or distance, the lovers have to fight to be together. And of course, the theme of passion. The intense feelings the characters have for each other drive the story forward.
One common theme is family opposition. In many Indian cultures, families have a say in marriages, so often in love stories, the couple has to face family disapproval. Another theme is the beauty of traditional settings. For example, the lovers might meet at a temple or during a festival. Also, the theme of sacrifice is often seen. Sometimes one of the lovers has to sacrifice something like a career opportunity or a relationship with a family member for the sake of their love.
Another theme is the discovery of love. It's like in straight love stories, but here it can be more complex due to social factors. They might find love in unexpected places or at unexpected times. For instance, two men might meet at a work event and slowly realize they have feelings for each other.
Love and sacrifice are common themes. For example, like in 'The Gift of the Magi' where the couple sacrifices their most precious possessions for each other. Another theme is longing. Often, characters in romantic short stories long for the love of another person, whether it's a forbidden love or a love that seems out of reach.
One common theme is love against all odds. This could be lovers from different social classes or families with enmity trying to be together.
Longing is also a prevalent theme. The characters in these stories often long for a deeper connection or more time with their loved ones. In 'Hills Like White Elephants', the woman seems to long for a different kind of future with the man, which creates a sense of unease and intensity. These themes work together to create the emotional depth in intense romantic short stories.
Love and sacrifice is a common theme. Just like in 'The Gift of the Magi', the couple sacrifices their most precious possessions for each other. Another theme is unrequited love, as seen in some stories where one person loves another but the feeling isn't fully reciprocated.
Longing and separation can also be themes. There are stories where the lovers are apart, either physically or emotionally at first. This creates a sense of longing that adds to the romantic tension. For instance, in stories set during wartime, the lovers may be separated by distance and the danger of war, but their love endures. And of course, the theme of passion is almost always present. It can be expressed in different ways, from a simple touch to a deep, unspoken understanding between the characters.
The theme of eternal love is also quite prevalent. Many Hindi romantic short stories depict love that lasts even after death. For instance, there are stories where a lover pines away for their deceased partner and their love is shown to be so strong that it transcends the physical world.
Love at first sight is a common theme. For example, two strangers might meet while shopping for Christmas presents and instantly feel a connection. Another theme is the power of giving. In many stories, a character gives selflessly during Christmas, which then leads to a romantic encounter. It shows that kindness and love go hand in hand during the holiday season.
Unrequited love is a common theme. For example, in many stories, one person loves another deeply but the feelings are not reciprocated, like in some tales where a character pines away for someone who is in love with someone else.