One possible theme could be the importance of education. Since it's a teacher's story, it might focus on how education can change lives.
Another theme might be about authority. Since it involves a teacher, it could explore how the teacher exerts or loses their authority in the situation described in the 'facesit story'. For example, if the teacher faces a mutiny of sorts from the students, how does the teacher deal with it to maintain their authority? Also, the theme of growth could be there. The teacher might learn and grow from the experience they face in this story.
Another theme could be personal growth. The English teacher may experience growth in their own skills or understanding as they interact with students. For example, they might learn about different cultures from their students and this broadens their perspective. Also, students in the story could experience personal growth through the influence of the English teacher. They might gain confidence in speaking English or develop a love for literature.
I'm not sure as I haven't read it specifically. But generally, it might be about a teacher's experiences, perhaps in the classroom, with students, or about the teacher's own journey in the teaching profession.
Existentialism could be a theme. As the end approaches, characters may question their purpose and existence in a world that is about to cease. They might struggle with the meaning of their lives and their actions in such a dire situation.
One possible plot could be that the teacher noticed a shy child in the class and worked hard to bring the child out of their shell. She might have used different teaching methods and activities to boost the child's confidence.
Another theme could be family. Since it's about the dad's wife, it may focus on how she contributes to the family, whether it's through taking care of the household, the kids, or being the emotional support for everyone. There could also be a theme of growth. Maybe the story shows how the relationship between the dad and his wife has evolved over time, and how they have both grown as individuals within the relationship.
Another theme might be self - discovery. Punky could be on a journey to find out who they really are, what they like and dislike, and what their purpose is in the story. This could involve trying new things and learning from mistakes. It could also be a theme of perseverance. If Punky faces difficulties, they keep going and don't give up, which would make perseverance a key theme in the story.
One possible theme could be love. Maybe he'll talk about his first love, or the love he has for his family and friends.
Another theme might be love. It could be a secret love story that Thomas doesn't want to make public yet. It could involve unrequited love or a relationship that has some sort of complication.
The theme of hope could also be present. If it was a story about people trying to build a better future, perhaps in the aftermath of a difficult event in 1971. Or if it was about a community coming together, hope would be what drove them to move forward. It could also be a story of survival, especially if it was set against a backdrop of difficult economic or environmental conditions in 1971.