* Satire of social conventions: The story is often read as a critique of the rigid, often nonsensical social expectations and behaviors of the Victorian era. Saki uses the children's relentless questioning and the governess's desperate attempts to maintain control to poke fun at the absurdity of these conventions.
* Critique of storytelling: The story can also be seen as a commentary on the nature of storytelling itself. The governess's attempts to impose her own narrative on the children backfire, highlighting the power and importance of the listener's own interpretation and imagination.
* Exploration of the child's perspective: Saki's portrayal of the children is sharp and insightful. He captures their curiosity, their desire for excitement, and their skepticism towards adult authority. By allowing them to challenge the governess's narrative, Saki gives voice to the child's unique perspective on the world.
* Humorous subversion of expectations: Saki was known for his witty and unexpected twists. "The Storyteller" is no exception, with the ending providing a hilarious subversion of the typical "moral of the story" found in traditional children's tales.
It's important to remember that literary interpretation is subjective, and readers may find different meanings in the story based on their own individual experiences and perspectives. Ultimately, Saki's purpose in writing "The Storyteller" likely encompasses a combination of these themes, creating a witty and thought-provoking piece of short fiction that continues to resonate with readers today.