One common theme is self - acceptance. Since in many cases, the characters are in a society that may not fully accept homosexuality at first, they have to learn to accept themselves. For example, in 'Call Me by Your Name', Elio has to come to terms with his feelings for Oliver.
Another theme is the search for identity. Characters in gay fiction are often on a journey to figure out who they are not only in terms of their sexual orientation but also as a person. In 'Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe', both Aristotle and Dante are trying to understand themselves better while exploring their feelings for each other.
Love and relationship are also big themes. Gay fiction often explores different aspects of love between two men, like the initial attraction, the challenges they face, and how they maintain their relationship. Just like in 'Maurice', the main character has to deal with the class differences as well as the social taboos when in love.
Love and acceptance are common themes. Gay characters often struggle to find love and be accepted for who they are in society.
Power dynamics is a very common theme. There's usually a dominant and a submissive character, and the story often revolves around their relationship and how power is exchanged and negotiated.
Family also plays a significant role. Some gay stories fiction show the acceptance or rejection from the family when the character reveals their sexual identity. For example, in some stories, the family may be initially shocked but then gradually come to accept it, while in others, the family may be completely opposed. Additionally, friendship is a common theme as well. Gay characters often rely on their friends for support, understanding and a sense of belonging.
One common theme is identity struggle. Gay black individuals often have to navigate their sexual identity within the context of their racial identity, which can be complex. For example, in many stories, they might face discrimination from both the straight black community and the white gay community.
One common theme is body acceptance. Since the 'bear' identity often involves a larger or more hairy body type, many 'gay bear fiction' works promote the idea that all bodies are beautiful.
One common theme is the struggle for acceptance. In many historical periods, homosexuality was not tolerated, so characters often had to fight against society's norms. For example, in Victorian England - set gay historical fictions, characters had to hide their true selves.
Love and relationships are also prevalent. It could be the first love between two young gay individuals, facing the challenges of homophobia or acceptance within their families and communities. Take the story of some young gay fictions where the characters have to fight for their right to love each other.
In 'gay crime fiction', identity is a big theme. The characters are not only dealing with the crime aspect but also with their sexual identity. They might be using their identity as a strength or having it be a target. Revenge is also common. Maybe a gay character has been wronged in the past because of their orientation and is seeking revenge through criminal or semi - criminal means. Also, the theme of the outsider. Gay characters in these stories are often seen as outsiders in the crime - solving world, whether it's the police force or the criminal underworld, and they have to fight to be taken seriously.
One common theme is the exploration of identity. Gay characters often struggle with coming to terms with their sexual orientation and how it fits into society. Another theme is love and relationships, which can be just as complex and beautiful as in heterosexual relationships but also come with their own unique challenges due to social stigma in some cases.
One common theme is the exploration of identity. The characters, being both gay and having a physical disability like being an amputee, often struggle with how society views them in terms of both aspects. For example, they might face discrimination not only for their sexual orientation but also for their disability.