Isolation can be considered a theme as well. The characters seem to be somewhat isolated in their own thoughts and experiences, even when they are in a social gathering. They carry their own private burdens and memories that set them apart.
Unrequited love is a main theme. Characters experience love that is not returned, creating a sense of longing and melancholy.
One of the main themes is mortality. The title itself, 'The Dead', points towards this. It also explores the idea of love and how it can be complex and often unfulfilled. Another theme is the past and how it haunts the present, as seen through the memories of the characters.
Unrequited love is a main theme. The characters experience love that is not fully reciprocated. Another theme is the passage of time and how it changes feelings and relationships.
In 'A Dead Woman's Secret' short story, the themes of family secrets and the past often play important roles. The dead woman's secret may be related to her family, something that has been hidden for a long time and could potentially change the family's perception of her or their own history.
One of the main themes is the clash between tradition and modernity. The path in the story has traditional significance for the villagers, but the new headmaster sees it as an obstacle to his modernizing plans for the school.
Love and its complexity is another theme. Gabriel's love for Gretta is shaken when he learns about her past love. It shows how love can be influenced by memories and past experiences.
Love and loss are main themes. Gabriel experiences a sense of loss when he realizes that his wife has had a deep, past love that he was unaware of. Mortality is also a key theme. As the story progresses, there is a growing awareness of death, symbolized by the snow and the overall melancholic mood.
The celebration of life is also a key theme. In short Day of the Dead stories, it's common to see how the lives of the deceased are celebrated rather than mourned. For instance, a story could be about a community coming together to dance and sing in honor of those who have passed, sharing stories of their great achievements and happy times during their lives.
One of the key themes is disillusionment. The main character builds up an idea of love in his mind, but as the story progresses, he discovers that it was all an illusion, much like a dead star that appears bright from afar but is actually lifeless. Also, the theme of self - discovery is present. Through his experiences with love, the protagonist learns more about himself and his own capacity for false emotions.
One main theme is the pursuit of ambition. The protagonist is so focused on his work and career advancement that he risks his life. Another theme is the value of life. His near - death experience makes him realize there are more important things than just work.