What themes jump out at you? Given the idea that we do not choose our favorite

What themes jump out at you? Given the idea that we do not choose our favorite stories, that they choose us, which of the stories from last time and today have the most to say to you?
https://gutenberg.net.au/fsf/THE-RICH-BOY.html
https://gutenberg.net.au/fsf/BABYLON-REVISITED.html
https://faculty.weber.edu/jyoung/English%202500/Readings%20for%20English%202500/Hills%20Like%20White%20Elephants.pdf
https://faculty.weber.edu/jyoung/English%202500/Readings%20for%20English%202500/Hills%20Like%20White%20Elephants.pdf
Story from last time:
https://www.gutenberg.org/files/45524/45524-h/45524-h.htm