One possible theme could be friendship, as it's about Kenneth and his friend Owen Marshall.
Another theme might be growth. Maybe through their experiences together, both Kenneth and Owen grow as individuals. For instance, if they face a difficult situation like a loss in the family or a struggle at school, they could learn and develop in different ways. Also, loyalty could be a theme. They might have to show loyalty to each other in the face of external challenges or temptations.
I'm not very familiar with this specific short story about Kenneth's friend Owen Marshall. Maybe it's a relatively niche or personal story. It could be about their adventures together, or perhaps some kind of life - changing event that involves both of them.
One of the main themes is identity. In Owen Marshall short stories, characters are often on a journey to discover who they are. This could be related to their cultural heritage, as he often delves into the Maori and Pakeha cultures in New Zealand. Also, the theme of change is prominent. His stories show how characters adapt to changes in their lives, whether it's a new job, a move to a different place, or a shift in family relationships.
In Owen Marshall's short stories, you'll find a variety of characters. There are the elderly characters, who carry with them the wisdom and the history of the place. They often act as the storytellers or the ones who pass on the values of the community. Schoolteachers are also common characters. They play an important role in shaping the younger generation. And of course, there are the local townsfolk, each with their own quirks and personalities, who together form the fabric of the small - town life that is often depicted in his stories.
One possible theme could be family. Christmas is often a time for family reunions, and perhaps the story of Kenneth Bailey focuses on his family coming together during the holidays.
One possible theme could be friendship itself. It might explore the different aspects of a friendship like trust, support, and shared interests. Another theme could be about differences, if Fancy and her friend are very different from each other and how they deal with that in their relationship.
One possible theme is loyalty. A dog is known for its loyalty to its owner, and this could be a central theme in the story.
One possible theme could be the struggle for identity. Sharon might have been in a situation where her true identity was hidden or distorted. Another theme could be survival. If she was in a difficult situation like being in an abusive home or a dangerous environment, her story could be about how she tried to survive. Also, the theme of secrecy might be present. There could be things about her situation that were being kept hidden from the public or even from those who could help her.
One possible theme could be loss and grief. The drowning of a friend is a significant loss, and the story might explore how the protagonist copes with that.
Well, in 'the friend true story', the theme could be growth. As friends interact and experience things together, they grow as individuals. They learn from each other, adapt to each other's quirks, and become better people. It could also involve the theme of acceptance, where friends accept each other's flaws and differences completely.
One possible theme could be leadership. The female - dominant friend might take on a leadership role in various activities they do together, like leading a volunteer project among friends. Another theme could be mentorship, where she guides her friend in learning new skills or knowledge, in a rather dominant, take - charge manner.