The concept of time can be an interesting thing to write about. You can play with time loops, where a character is stuck repeating a day until they figure out how to break the loop. Or time travel, going back in time to change a significant event. Another is the idea of cultural heritage. A character exploring their roots, learning about the traditions and values of their ancestors can add a rich layer to the story. Also, the power of music. A character whose life is transformed by a particular song or type of music.
An interesting thing to write about could be the relationship between humans and animals in a non - traditional sense. For instance, a character who can communicate with animals telepathically and has to solve a mystery with their animal friends. Also, the power of memories, not just personal ones but collective memories that are stored in a place or an object. And the idea of an inanimate object having a life of its own. For example, a house that seems to have a will of its own and affects the lives of the people who live in it.
One less common but good thing to write about is the supernatural in a unique way. For example, not just vampires or werewolves, but more esoteric things like spirits that live in old trees and can communicate with humans through dreams. Another could be the study of an unusual profession. Such as a person who is a professional taste tester for a top - secret food company. And then there's the idea of a hidden world within our own. Maybe there's a parallel society of people with special abilities that exist right under our noses, and the story is about a character who discovers it.
The Christmas star is quite iconic. It guided the wise men to the baby Jesus and is often depicted in Christmas art and stories as a bright, shining symbol in the night sky. Candy canes are also iconic. Their red and white stripes and peppermint flavor are a staple during Christmas time. They can be hung on the tree or given as treats.
How about Dr. Lysander? It's not a typical doctor name and can give the character an air of mystery. Dr. Ophelia is also a great choice if you want a more literary - inspired name for a female doctor. And Dr. Thaddeus, which has an old - fashioned charm but is not very common.
Caleb. It's not as overused as some names but still has a warm and fatherly sound. It can be for a father who is hardworking and family - oriented. Another one is Ethan. It gives an impression of a modern and caring father. And there's Owen, which is a name that can be used for a father who is creative and has a bit of an adventurous spirit.
You could use 'phantasmagoric', which means having a fantastic or dream - like appearance, often in a disturbing way. 'Spectral' is another good word, referring to something like a specter or ghost - like. And 'crepuscular' can be used to describe things related to twilight, a time often associated with mystery and the transition between day and night in gothic literature.
There's Atticus. It has a literary feel to it, like it belongs to a wise and moral character. And then there's Orion. It's not as common but is great for a character who is adventurous or has a connection to the stars. These names can make your boy characters stand out more in a story.
One interesting trope is the 'Time - Travel' trope in a fantasy context. It allows for complex plots and different eras to be explored. The 'Elemental Magic' trope, such as characters having control over fire, water, air, or earth. And the 'Mythical Creature as a Companion' trope, like having a dragon as a friend and ally in the story.
Ghastly. This word can be used to describe a really horrible appearance or situation. For instance, a ghastly face emerging from the darkness. 'Shudder - inducing' is another one. It means that it makes you shudder, like a shudder - inducing scream in a horror story. It directly shows the physical reaction the horror element causes.
How about 'Zephyr'? It's not a very common name but it gives a sense of freedom and airiness, which could be great for a character who is carefree or has a spiritual side. 'Niamh' is also an interesting choice. It has Irish origins and a unique sound that can make your main character stand out. And 'Orion' is a name with a celestial touch, perfect for a character who is destined for great things or has a connection to the stars.
Ominous. It gives a feeling that something bad is about to happen. Then there's 'forbidding', which makes the setting or character seem very unfriendly and dangerous.
Scarlett can be a great choice. It has a bold and fiery connotation, suitable for strong - willed female characters. Another less common but interesting name is Juniper. It gives a sense of nature and wildness. Also, Ophelia has a tragic and poetic feel, great for certain types of stories.