There are several great 'gay coming of age short stories'. For example, 'Howl' by Allen Ginsberg can be considered in a way. It was a revolutionary work that explored non - traditional sexual identities during its time. Then there is 'Fun Home' which is a graphic novel but also has short - story - like qualities. It tells the story of a girl growing up with a gay father and her own exploration of identity in relation to that. And 'Brokeback Mountain' which was originally a short story and later made into a movie, shows the complex relationship between two men and their coming - of - age in a difficult environment.
Identity is a very common theme. These stories often show the struggle of the main character to understand and accept their gay identity. For example, in many stories, the character may initially be confused or in denial. Another common theme is first love. It could be a beautiful and sometimes painful experience as they navigate relationships with other boys. Also, family acceptance or lack thereof is often explored. Some families are supportive, while others may be a source of conflict.
Self - discovery is a very common theme. The characters often have to figure out their sexual identity, which is a big part of coming of age. Another is first love. Just like in any coming of age story, the experience of falling in love for the first time is crucial, but in gay coming of age stories, it also comes with the added complexity of same - sex attraction. Also, acceptance, both self - acceptance and acceptance from family and society, is often explored as many gay characters face challenges in being accepted as they are.
One great one is 'Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe'. It beautifully portrays the journey of two boys coming to terms with their identities. The relationship between Aristotle and Dante is complex and heartwarming, showing their growth both as individuals and in their connection with each other.
Self - discovery is a common theme. Gay characters often have to figure out their sexual orientation and how it fits into their identity. For example, in many stories, the protagonist might initially be confused or in denial.
There's 'Fun Home: A Family Tragicomic'. It's a graphic memoir that functions like a short story in many ways. It shows the author's journey of coming to understand her father's homosexuality and her own, with a lot of complex family dynamics intertwined. 'Howl's Moving Castle' by Diana Wynne Jones also has some elements of gay coming - of - age, especially in the relationship between the main characters that evolves in a very special way.
There isn't any explicit indication in the original Ocarina of Time that it is a gay coming - of - age story. However, some fans might interpret certain aspects in a new way. For example, Link's strong friendships and bonds with other characters could potentially be seen through a queer - lens. His growth and self - discovery during his adventures might be compared to the general coming - of - age experience that can be related to a gay person's journey of self - acceptance and identity formation, but this is a very much fan - driven and non - canonical interpretation.
One great coming of age short story is 'The Most Dangerous Game' by Richard Connell. It shows a young man's growth in the face of extreme danger. Another is 'The Lottery' by Shirley Jackson, which makes the young protagonist and readers question the traditions they've grown up with. Also, 'A&P' by John Updike is good. It tells about a young store clerk's moment of realization about society and his own place in it.