Well, one characteristic is that there are usually parallel or related elements. For example, in a story about two friends, their actions and fates might be a close match. Maybe they both make the same mistake and face the same consequences. Another characteristic could be that the characters' emotions and the events in the story are in harmony. If a character is very greedy, the events that unfold might be a close match to their greed, like they lose everything because of their excessive desire for wealth.
A close match short story usually has similar themes, characters, and plot structures as the original or expected one. It hits the key points and conveys the intended message accurately.
Sure. 'The Gift of the Magi' by O. Henry could be considered such a story. It's about a young couple who are very poor. The wife has long, beautiful hair and the husband has a precious watch. To buy a Christmas present for each other, the wife sells her hair to buy a chain for the husband's watch, and the husband sells his watch to buy combs for the wife's hair. It shows how much they love each other and how their sacrifices are a close match in a way.
The 'Match Girl' is a very sad story. It shows the harsh life of a poor girl. She has to sell matches in the cold winter but no one buys from her. Eventually, she freezes to death. It reflects the social inequality at that time.
Well, without having read it, it might be about a perfect match in a non - romantic context too. For example, it could be about two things or people that complement each other perfectly in a business or friendship situation. Maybe it tells the story of how they meet and the positive impact their 'perfect match' has on their lives or a particular situation.
Well, a close encounter short story could be written by someone like H.G. Wells who's known for his imaginative tales. Or perhaps it's the work of a contemporary author like Neil Gaiman. But we need more info to determine precisely who the author is.
A close reading of a short story involves carefully observing the characters' development, the setting, and any literary devices employed. Consider how these elements contribute to the overall message. It's also helpful to compare and contrast different parts of the story to uncover deeper meanings.
In the 'Match Girl' short story, the central themes are interconnected. Poverty forces her into a life of selling matches in the cold. This poverty also leads to her loneliness as she is separated from any form of comfort or support. The hope that comes from the matches is a bittersweet one. It shows that even in the darkest of times, there is still a flicker of hope within the human heart. But ultimately, the story also shows the harsh reality that for many in poverty, hope might not be enough to overcome the difficulties they face, highlighting the theme of the unforgiving nature of a society that allows such extreme poverty to exist.