It could be about time, as the numbers might suggest something related to a specific time like December 1st. Maybe it's about missed opportunities or new beginnings associated with that time.
The possible themes are quite diverse. It could be about memory and how the events related to '12 01' are remembered or forgotten. It might also be about hope, if '12 01' represents a moment of anticipation or a new start. Another possible theme could be isolation, perhaps something happened on '12 01' that made a character feel alone. Without reading the story, it's difficult to be certain, but these are some common themes that short stories often explore.
It could be about love. Love is a very common theme in short stories, like a short-lived romance or unrequited love.
One possible theme could be isolation. The telephone man might be isolated in his work, constantly dealing with machines rather than people on a personal level. Another theme could be progress. Since he's involved with telephones, which are a form of technology, the story could show how technology is advancing and how he either adapts or struggles to keep up. Also, connection could be a theme. He is the one who helps people stay connected through telephones, but he himself might lack certain connections in his own life.
The possible themes could be love. Maybe it's a story about a young couple falling in love and facing various challenges. It could also be about friendship, like two friends going through a tough time together and coming out stronger. Another possible theme is self - discovery. Gertrude might write about a character who embarks on a journey to find out who they really are.
One possible theme could be change. Since it's 'after the hook', something has already happened to disrupt the normal state, and the story could be about how the characters or the situation changes as a result. Another theme might be discovery. Maybe the hook was the start of a journey of discovery, and the theme is about what is found or learned after that initial moment.
One possible theme could be redemption. Maybe the main character has made mistakes in the past and through the course of the short story, they strive to make amends.
One possible theme could be finality. Since it mentions 'the end', it might be about the end of a relationship, a journey, or a life. And if 'blythe' is related to a character, then the theme could also involve how that character copes with the end.
One possible theme is self - discovery. The protagonist in the 'very long short story' may be on a journey to find out who they really are. This could involve facing challenges and learning from mistakes. Also, friendship could be a theme. Characters forming deep bonds and relying on each other through different situations.
One possible theme could be isolation. A concrete garden might represent a place that is cut off from nature, and the characters in the story could feel isolated within it or because of it.
One possible theme could be the struggle with one's own mind. Since delirium is involved, it might be about Alex fighting against his or her inner turmoil.
The theme of perseverance could also be present. Despite the problem, the man may keep trying to find a solution. He doesn't give up easily, which shows his perseverance. This could be especially true if the problem is a difficult one, like a long - standing illness or a complex work - related issue.