Social Issues and Concerns:
* Poverty and Inequality: The struggles of working-class families, the impact of economic disparity, and the cycle of poverty.
* Race and Prejudice: Experiences of discrimination, the fight for social justice, and the complexities of racial identity.
* Gender Roles and Expectations: Challenges faced by women in a patriarchal society, the fight for women's rights, and the evolution of gender roles.
* Urbanization and Industrialization: The effects of rapid societal change on individuals and communities, the loss of tradition, and the rise of new social problems.
* War and its Aftermath: The psychological and physical scars of conflict, the impact of war on families and communities, and the search for peace.
* Immigration and Cultural Identity: The struggles of immigrants in a new land, the clash between cultures, and the process of assimilation.
* Education and Social Mobility: The importance of education for social advancement, the challenges of accessing quality education, and the impact of education on social mobility.
Personal Struggles and Relationships:
* Loss and Grief: The emotional journey of dealing with loss, the complexities of mourning, and the search for meaning after a tragedy.
* Marriage and Family Life: The challenges and rewards of marriage, the dynamics of family relationships, and the evolving roles of parents and children.
* Love and Desire: The complexities of romantic relationships, the pursuit of happiness, and the search for love in a changing world.
* Mental Health and Illness: The struggles of individuals with mental health issues, the stigma surrounding mental illness, and the search for treatment and support.
* Moral Dilemmas and Ethical Choices: Characters facing ethical dilemmas, the consequences of their actions, and the struggle to make the right choice.
* Coming of Age: The challenges and triumphs of adolescence, the search for identity, and the transition into adulthood.
Remember: Realist literature often seeks to depict the everyday lives of ordinary people, focusing on the gritty details of their lives and the social and political contexts in which they live. It's about presenting a truthful, unvarnished view of reality, even if it's uncomfortable or challenging.