* The Power of Memory and Nostalgia: The story revolves around the narrator's memories of the vendor sweets he used to eat as a child. These memories are vivid and nostalgic, highlighting the power of the past to shape the present and our longing for simpler times.
* The Nature of Change: The story contrasts the narrator's youthful experiences with the current state of the vendor sweets. The changes are subtle, but they emphasize the inevitable march of time and the way even seemingly unchanging traditions can be altered.
* The Importance of Small Pleasures: The vendor sweets are a simple delight that brings joy to the narrator. This emphasizes the importance of finding happiness in the ordinary and appreciating small pleasures in life.
* The Passage of Time: The narrator's reflections on the past and present highlight the passage of time. The vendor sweets act as a reminder of his youth and the fleeting nature of life.
* Social Commentary: Although subtle, the story hints at social inequalities and the way they impact daily life. The narrator's father, a lawyer, is seen as "superior" to the vendor, a reflection of the caste system and social hierarchies prevalent in Indian society.
* The Search for Authenticity: The narrator's disappointment with the modern-day vendor sweets reflects a yearning for authenticity and the loss of traditional craftsmanship. This resonates with the theme of change and the longing for the past.
"Vendor Sweets" is a short story that packs a lot of meaning into its brevity. It is a poignant and evocative meditation on memory, change, and the fleeting nature of life.