The stories of Mainly in Moonlight provide almost no direct references to conditions or events in the present-day world. But as with traditional fairy tales, Gray's stories can be applied to a variety of human situations and conditions.

Moreover, since his stories deal with such themes as human growth, the scrupulous use of power, and the nature of courage, they can provide a springboard for discussions about many issues. Even the tales with a darker tone contain no graphic descriptions of harm or violence. Suspense is created by the sophisticated use of language and by pacing rather than by lurid details.