In a short story, the theme is typically stated or hinted at in the title. For example, the short story "The Gift of the Magi" by O. Henry has the theme of sacrifice, as the main characters both give up valuable possessions in order to buy each other Christmas gifts. The short story "The Yellow Wallpaper" by Charlotte Perkins Gilman has the theme of female oppression, as the main character is confined to a room and treated like a prisoner by her husband and doctor.
Themes can also be found in the characters of a short story. For example, the main character of "The Old Man and the Sea" by Ernest Hemingway is a symbol of courage and perseverance, as he struggles against the forces of nature in order to catch a giant fish. The main character of "A Rose for Emily" by William Faulkner is a symbol of mystery and decay, as she lives a life of isolation and seclusion and her house slowly falls apart around her.
Themes can be interpreted in many different ways, and there is no one right answer. The meaning of a theme can vary depending on the reader's own personal experiences and beliefs. When reading a short story, it is important to consider the themes and how they relate to the plot and the characters. By doing so, readers can gain a deeper understanding of the story and its significance.