Another theme could be survival. After the battle, the characters have to find ways to survive in a changed world. They may struggle with finding food, shelter, and a sense of safety. For example, they could be facing a destroyed environment or a lack of resources.
One of the main themes is the struggle for power. In the story, the characters are in a fight, both literally in the battle royal, and figuratively in society. They are vying for a position of dominance or at least a sense of self - worth.
I'm not sure specifically without reading the story, but it could be soldiers. Since it's about after a battle, soldiers are likely to be main characters as they are directly involved in the battle and would experience the after - effects.
One main theme could be competition and its aftermath. After the race, the characters might experience a range of emotions like victory, defeat, or disappointment. Another theme could be self - discovery. Through the experience of the race, the characters may learn something new about themselves.
Racism is a major theme. The way the black characters are treated, like being forced to fight in the battle royal for the amusement of whites, clearly shows the deep - rooted racism. Another theme is the search for identity. The protagonist is constantly trying to figure out who he is in a world that devalues him because of his race.
The main themes include the struggle with identity. Without the clear - cut guidance of God, the characters are trying to figure out who they are. There is also the theme of consumerism. The story shows how consumer culture has filled the void left by the lack of religious belief. People are constantly seeking satisfaction through material possessions. And finally, the theme of time and mortality. The characters are aware of their limited time on earth and are trying to make sense of it in a world without God.
If it's about 9/11, common themes could be loss. So many lives were lost that day, and families were torn apart.
Love and friendship are likely main themes. Stories may show how characters support and care for each other.
Since we have no information about the '5 short story', it's a mystery what the main themes could be. It could be that the stories are centered around historical events and themes like war, social change, or cultural heritage. Or maybe they are more focused on personal relationships and emotions such as jealousy, forgiveness, or gratitude. There are so many possibilities when it comes to short story themes, and without more details about this specific collection, we can only guess.
Another theme is the loss of freedom. People are not allowed to think freely or have privacy. And also, the distortion of truth is a theme. The Party in the story changes history to suit its needs.
Since we know the title has '11 59' in it, time is likely to be a major theme. It could be about the preciousness of the last minute before midnight, symbolizing a transition or a moment of change. Another possible theme could be anticipation. What is about to happen at 11:59? Are the characters waiting for something, and what does that waiting mean for them? It might also touch on themes of fate or destiny, like whatever is supposed to happen at 11:59 is fated to occur.