# Greed and Ambition in Short Fiction

> Theme guide for Short Fiction by Jonas Lie.

Characters like Bardun, who gains power through a magical rudder, and the shopman tempted by the underground folk's treasures, illustrate how greed for wealth or status leads to moral compromise and downfall.

## Where it surfaces

- [The Grey](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/short_fiction_32_se/chapters/the-grey): Oesten Störsat's vengeful bid for the grey horse and the land dispute that impoverishes Strömshagen reflect greed and ambition.
- [Jack of Sjöholm and the Gan-Finn](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/short_fiction_32_se/chapters/jack-of-sj-holm-and-the-gan-finn): Jack's relentless drive to build boats and amass wealth leads to neglect and tragedy, as he prioritizes profit over safety.
- [The Earth Draws](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/short_fiction_32_se/chapters/the-earth-draws): The salesman is tempted by visions of vast wealth and power, but ultimately resists, choosing a mortal life and marriage.
- [The Wind-Gnome](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/short_fiction_32_se/chapters/the-wind-gnome): Bardun's relentless pursuit of power and wealth leads him to defy all authority and ultimately to his downfall.
- [It's Me](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/short_fiction_32_se/chapters/it-s-me): Toad's greed for food, finery, and control drives her actions, ultimately harming the general dealer's business.

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/short_fiction_32_se/themes/greed_and_ambition
- Themes index: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/short_fiction_32_se/themes