Common themes in murder fiction include the psychological aspect of the murderer. We often see the motives that drive a person to kill, which can be complex and deeply rooted in their past. There's also the theme of redemption sometimes. For example, a character might be involved in a murder indirectly and then tries to make amends. And the setting can be a theme in itself. A spooky old mansion or a seedy part of town can add to the overall atmosphere of the murder story.
One common theme is revenge. Often, the murderer has a motive related to getting back at someone for a past wrong. Another theme is justice. The story may revolve around whether the right person is being punished or if justice is being served. Mystery is also a big theme. The readers are kept in suspense about who the killer is and how the crime was committed.
One common theme is the exploration of what it means to be human. In these stories, often in a science - fiction setting, the murderer or the victim might be something other than a traditional human, like an android or a genetically - engineered being. This makes the question of identity and humanity central to the mystery.
The theme of redemption can also be found in some 'Murder in Small Town X' fan fiction. For example, a character who has made mistakes in the past tries to make up for it during the course of solving the murder mystery. Additionally, the theme of community is prevalent. It shows how the small - town community reacts to the murder and how they come together or fall apart in the face of such a tragedy. This is often explored in great detail in many fan fictions.
One common theme could be mystery-solving. Since Diagnosis Murder is a show about solving crimes, fan fiction might continue this trend with Norman Delores being involved in some sort of mystery. Another theme could be relationships. It could explore Norman Delores' relationships with other characters from the show, whether it's friendships or something more complex.
The breakdown of society or family can be a theme too. A murder can shatter the fabric of a family or a community, as seen in some stories where the murder has far - reaching consequences not just for the victim and the murderer, but for everyone around them. It shows how a single act of violence can have a domino effect on relationships and the social order.
Betrayal is another major theme. A sexual relationship might involve lies and deceit, and when the truth comes out, it can lead to a murder. It could be a case of a lover finding out about infidelity and in a fit of rage, committing a murder. Also, jealousy can play a huge role. If one character is jealous of another's sexual relationship or conquests, it might drive them to kill.
One common theme is the search for justice. In many murder fantasy novels, the main character is on a quest to find out who committed the murder and bring them to justice. Another theme is the exploration of the dark side of human nature. Murder is often used as a device to show how cruel and self - interested people can be. For example, in some novels, characters may murder for power or wealth.
Jealousy also plays a big role. For example, if one person in a relationship is jealous of the other's success or new relationships, it can fuel the hatred that may end in murder. In addition, obsession is another theme. One may be so obsessed with their partner that when things don't go their way, they turn to violence. These themes are often intertwined, creating a complex and dark narrative.
Revenge is a common theme. Just like in 'The Cask of Amontillado' where Montresor takes revenge on Fortunato. Guilt is also often present. In 'The Tell - Tale Heart', the narrator's guilt eventually drives him to confess.
The theme of the femme fatale is quite common. A beautiful and mysterious woman may be involved, either as a victim or as the murderer herself. Another is the theme of the haunted past. The murderer's actions could be rooted in some traumatic event from their past. Also, the theme of the hidden identity is often seen. A character may not be who they seem, and this is closely related to the mystery of the murder.