There's definitely a feeling with a short story that it's pure story telling. You're not really worried about theme. You're not going to stay with the characters long enough to live your life with them. And you have different kinds of relationships with them.

Now me,” said Mr. Vandemar. “What number am I thinking of?” “I beg your pardon?” “What number am I thinking of?” repeated Mr. Vandemar. “It’s between one and a lot,” he added, helpfully.

To be Despair. It is a portrait. Only close your eyes and feel.

It does not matter where you come from, if you walk toward the truth you will reach it, whatever path you take.

I am anti-life, the Beast of Judgment. I am the dark at the end of everything. The end of universes, gods, worlds…of everything. And what will you be then, Dreamlord?" "I am hope.

There's none so blind as those who will not listen.

The short story is still like the novel's wayward younger brother, we know that it's not respectable - but I think that can also add to the glory of it.