What are the common themes in romance fiction short stories?

Love at first sight is a common theme. For example, in many stories, the two main characters meet and are immediately attracted to each other, like in some fairytale - like short romances.

One common theme is self - discovery. The characters often start off unsure of their feelings or identity and through the relationship, they learn more about themselves. Another theme is acceptance, both self - acceptance and acceptance from society or family. Love, of course, is a central theme, and it's often portrayed as a powerful force that can overcome obstacles.

Often, there's the theme of discovery. The characters discover not only each other but also new worlds or new scientific concepts while falling in love. For instance, a couple might discover a new planet while on their romantic journey. Also, the idea of sacrifice for love is common. A character might sacrifice their position in their own world or a scientific discovery for the sake of their beloved.

Love at first sight could be a common theme. It often makes the stories exciting and full of possibilities.

Love and sacrifice are very common. In many romance short stories, like 'The Gift of the Magi', the characters give up something valuable for the sake of their love. Another theme is unrequited love. For example, in some stories, one character loves another who may not feel the same way. Longing and separation can also be themes, where the characters are apart but still deeply in love, such as in some war - time set romance short stories.

Love at first sight is a common theme. It gives that instant spark and attraction between the characters.

One common theme is loss. The loss of lives, the loss of a sense of safety, and the loss of a pre - 9/11 world. People in these stories often struggle to come to terms with the sudden and violent nature of the losses they've experienced.

One common theme is the supernatural. For example, ghosts or vampires often appear in these stories, like in 'Carmilla'. Another theme is isolation. The characters are usually in some sort of isolated place, such as a spooky old mansion, as in 'The Fall of the House of Usher'.

Another theme is the idea of a soulmate. Werewolf romance stories often depict the concept that there is one special person out there for the werewolf, usually their fated mate. This is a very romantic idea and drives a lot of the plot in these stories.

Another theme is death and the afterlife. Dark romance often involves the idea of losing a loved one to death and the character's struggle to come to terms with it or their attempts to be reunited in some way. It can also include the idea of loving someone who is already dead or a supernatural being related to death, like a ghost or a reaper.