What are the common themes in gay fiction stories?

Family also plays a significant role. Some gay stories fiction show the acceptance or rejection from the family when the character reveals their sexual identity. For example, in some stories, the family may be initially shocked but then gradually come to accept it, while in others, the family may be completely opposed. Additionally, friendship is a common theme as well. Gay characters often rely on their friends for support, understanding and a sense of belonging.

Social acceptance or the lack of it is also common. Gay characters often face discrimination or have to hide their relationships, which is a theme explored in various gay fiction works like 'Giovanni's Room' where the social norms and expectations play a significant role in the characters' lives.

Isolation is a common theme. Gay characters in horror stories are often isolated, either by society or by the very horror that surrounds them. For example, they might be in a small town where they are not accepted and then some supernatural horror starts to target them specifically because of their 'otherness'.

Love and commitment are also prevalent themes. Just like in straight relationships, tattoos can be a sign of love in gay relationships. A story might tell of a couple getting matching tattoos to show their commitment to each other. It's a way to mark their relationship in a permanent and visible way.

Love and longing are also common themes. These stories show the deep emotional connections that gay characters have, similar to any other romantic relationship. However, they also face unique challenges due to the social environment. For example, the fear of being ostracized by family and community is a recurring aspect. Moreover, the theme of finding acceptance in a society that is still evolving in terms of its views on homosexuality is often explored.

Love is a very common theme. Just like in any other relationship - based stories, the love between two male characters is often central. It can be a passionate, all - consuming love or a slow - burning, deep affection.

Love and desire are very common themes. These stories explore the deep and often complex emotions that come with gay love. For instance, in 'Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe', the love between Aristotle and Dante is a central and powerful force. Identity is also a big theme. The characters are constantly defining and redefining who they are in relation to their sexuality. In 'Giovanni's Room', the protagonist struggles with his identity as a gay man. And then there's the theme of friendship. In many gay fantasy fictions, friendship can be a precursor to love or an important support system, as seen in 'Less' where the main character has important friendships during his travels that influence his understanding of his own gay identity.

Isolation is another theme. Since their identities are being nullified, they often feel alone. For example, in a lot of these fictions, the characters are not fully accepted by their families or communities, so they end up in a state of isolation, which they then have to overcome in some way.

Struggle and acceptance are also prevalent themes. In many gay fiction short stories, the characters face discrimination, whether it's from society at large or within their own families. They have to fight for acceptance and equality. For example, in some stories, gay characters may be shunned by their religious communities. But at the same time, there are stories that focus on the support networks within the gay community itself, showing how they help each other through difficult times. This all ties into the broader theme of community, which is another important aspect in these short stories.

One common theme is identity. Many stories focus on the characters' journey to discover and accept their sexual identity. For example, in some stories, the main character might struggle with coming out to family or friends.