Friendship is a common theme. Just like in the story of the 9 - year - old and the lost kitten. Another theme could be self - discovery. When a 9 - year - old tries something new like the girl in the painting competition, she discovers her own abilities.
Family is also often a theme. For example, a 9 - year - old might have an adventure with their family members. And growth, like the boy who planted the tree. He grows along with the tree, learning important values such as responsibility as he takes care of it.
One common theme is wisdom. Old men in stories often represent a source of knowledge and experience that younger characters lack. For example, in many folktales, the old man imparts valuable life lessons.
One common theme is new beginnings. Just like the start of a new year, characters in the stories often look for a fresh start in life, like getting a new job or improving relationships.
Friendship is a common theme. Many stories show characters building or relying on their friendships in difficult situations.
Hope is a common theme. For example, characters may look forward to a better year ahead, leaving behind the troubles of the past year.
War and conflict are common themes. Since it's set in a war - torn universe, battles between different factions like the Imperium and Chaos are often depicted.
Religious and cultural traditions can also be a theme. Sometimes, the strict observance of certain religious practices can lead to funny situations. For instance, when a person is so eager to follow every single rule of a religious ceremony but ends up making a fool of himself because he misinterprets some of the rules.
Love is a common theme. It could be romantic love, like in a story where a man overcomes great obstacles to be with the woman he loves. Or it could be family love, such as a story about a son who takes care of his sick father.
Another theme could be the exploration of the senses other than sight. Since he is blind, the stories may focus on how he experiences the world through touch, smell, and hearing in a very vivid and detailed way. For instance, he can describe the smell of a flower or the sound of a raindrop in a way that makes the reader truly understand his unique perception of the world.
Since I don't know the exact Shamengwa short stories, it's hard to say. But generally, short stories can explore themes like love, loss, identity, and the human condition.
Friendship is a common theme. In many stories, girls form deep and meaningful friendships that help them through difficult times. For example, in 'Anne of Green Gables', Anne's friendships are crucial to her growth.