One possible main theme could be loss. The absence of Emily might symbolize the loss of a person, perhaps a loved one, and the story could explore how the characters deal with that void. Another theme could be mystery. Her absence might create a sense of mystery as to where she went and why she left, which could drive the plot and keep the readers intrigued.
Since the title focuses on Emily's absence, she is an important character even if not physically present. There could be a character like a husband or a partner who is left behind and is dealing with the emotional turmoil of her being gone. And perhaps a neighbor or a colleague who notices her absence and has some role in the story, like providing clues or just being a witness to the change in the situation.
The short story 'Absence' by Carol Shields may also deal with the absence of self - awareness. The characters could be so caught up in their routines or the expectations of others that they have lost touch with who they really are. This could be shown through their interactions with others, where they seem to be acting out a role rather than being their true selves. The story might then be a journey towards self - discovery as the character begins to recognize this absence within themselves.
Miss Emily in 'A Rose for Emily' is a complex character. She is a symbol of the old South's traditions and decline. She was raised in a certain social environment which made her have a sense of superiority at first. However, as time passed and the South changed, she became a bit of an outcast. Her relationship with Homer Barron was also quite strange. It seemed she was desperate to hold on to something, whether it was love or just a way to defy the changing world around her.
A frequent theme in absence short stories is regret. The absent character may regret their absence for various reasons, such as missing an important event or not being there for someone in need. Also, the theme of discovery can be present. Through the absence, other characters might discover new things about themselves or the situation.
Miss Emily is a figure full of mystery. She has been isolated for a long time. Her father's over - protection in the past made her lack the ability to face the new world independently. In the story, her appearance is often described as somewhat decayed, which is a metaphor for the decaying South. Her actions, like not paying taxes and her strange relationship with Homer, all contribute to the overall sense of unease and mystery in the story.
In 'Miss Emily' short story, the setting plays a crucial role. It might be an old, decaying town in the South. This setting mirrors Miss Emily's own state. The description of her house, which is large but dilapidated, gives an indication of her status and her detachment from the modern world. The story also often has a sense of foreboding. The townspeople's curiosity about Miss Emily adds to the overall atmosphere. They gossip about her, but they also seem a bit afraid of her, which makes her character even more enigmatic.
The roses or 'flowers' in the title can be seen as a symbol of pity and remembrance. They are given to Emily as a sign of the town's mixed feelings towards her. They pity her loneliness and her being left behind in a changing world, and the act of giving flowers is a way to remember her in some way, even if they don't fully understand her.