One way to build tension on the first day of a novel is to introduce a threat. For example, if the main character is a journalist, they could receive an anonymous warning not to pursue a certain story. This immediately creates a sense of danger.
It's a day filled with family gatherings, gift exchanges, and lots of holiday cheer. Maybe there's a special meal and some funny incidents along the way.
One year, my family decided to have a real Christmas dinner outside in the garden. We set up a big table and chairs. But then a bunch of squirrels showed up. They were so bold! They climbed onto the table and started nibbling at the Christmas cookies. We were all so shocked at first, but then we just laughed. It was like they were uninvited but very cute guests at our Christmas party.
The individual identified as the Christmas Day Bomber was Umar Farouk Abdulmutallab. He had planned and attempted to detonate explosives on a flight during that Christmas in 2009, which could have had a catastrophic outcome had it been successful.
On Christmas Day, there was an old couple, Mr. and Mrs. Thompson. They lived alone in a small cottage. Every Christmas, they would make a big meal and wait for their children to visit, but this year their children couldn't come due to bad weather. Instead of being sad, they decided to take the food to the local homeless shelter. There, they met many people who were so grateful for their kindness. They shared stories and laughter, and it turned out to be a very special Christmas Day filled with love and giving.
Here is a Christmas Day story. In a small town, there was a church that always held a big Christmas Day celebration. One year, a young girl named Lily volunteered to help decorate the church. She worked hard to make it look beautiful. On Christmas Day, during the service, she noticed a new family in town. They looked a bit lost. Lily invited them to sit with her family. After the service, they all shared a big Christmas dinner together. Lily's act of kindness made the new family feel welcome in the town, and it was a beautiful start to their new life there.
In a novel, 'the last first day' could imply the end of an era. For example, if the story is set in a school, it could be the last time a student has their first day at that school. It represents a transition from new beginnings to a more settled or final state within the story's world.
The 'First Day First Story' in 'The Decameron' often sets the tone for the entire collection. It likely presents certain themes like love, morality, or human nature that are explored throughout the work.