What is the overall theme of the story 'Happy Endings'?

I'm not sure specifically as it could be various things. It might be a story where the typical happy endings that are expected in tales are somehow lost, perhaps due to a character's actions, a twist of fate, or some external force disrupting the normal course towards a happy conclusion.

The 'Happy Endings' 1983 short story is interesting because it breaks the traditional narrative structure. Instead of following one linear plot, it offers multiple short plotlines that all end in a so - called 'happy' way. This makes the reader think about the nature of happiness and how it is often a construct in stories. For example, in some of the scenarios, the characters' actions are driven by social norms rather than true emotions.

Yes, it is. 'Happy Endings' by Margaret Atwood is indeed a story.

It might be through the intense and passionate relationships depicted, which could be seen as having an erotic undertone.

Typically, happy endings novels have a positive transformation of the characters. The characters might start off in a difficult situation but by the end, they have grown and are in a much better place. Take 'The Wonderful Wizard of Oz' for instance. Dorothy goes through many challenges but finally gets home and has learned a lot from her journey.

A happy endings short story often features a resolution of conflicts. For example, in a love - themed short story, the two characters who were facing misunderstandings finally come together. There is usually a sense of hope and fulfillment at the end. The characters may achieve their goals, like a protagonist who has been striving for a job getting the perfect position in the end.

One example could be the story of Cinderella. She endures hardships with her stepmother and stepsisters but finally gets to go to the ball. There, she meets the prince. After losing her glass slipper, the prince searches for her and in the end, they get married and live happily ever after. It's a classic full story with a happy ending.

Well, in happy endings short story, often there is growth. The protagonist might start as a timid person but by the end becomes brave. The story resolves all the loose ends. If there was a mystery, it's solved. It also has a mood of celebration at the end. For instance, a family that was on the verge of breaking up due to financial problems in the story, finds a solution and has a happy reunion, leaving the reader with a warm feeling.

I believe another theme is the role of social expectations in shaping our idea of a happy ending. In the story, characters often act according to what society deems as proper or successful, rather than following their own desires. For instance, getting married or having a certain social standing is presented as a happy ending, but it may not be for the characters themselves. And also, the theme of the fluidity of relationships is there. Different scenarios in the story show how relationships can change and develop in various ways, and how the idea of a happy ending can change with those relationships.

One characteristic could be the subversion of traditional expectations. Atwood often plays with the idea of what a 'happy ending' really means. Instead of a simple, straightforward conclusion, her happy endings might involve a complex resolution of power dynamics, for example.