through-line

British  

noun

1. a theme or idea that runs from the beginning to the end of a book, film, etc

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

through-line

The abdication of curatorial responsibility here might have been at least partially forgivable if the show were stuffed with so much engaging work that finding a unifying through-line proved nearly impossible.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Mar. 6, 2026

Divided into three sections hinged together by a through-line of humanism, Elizabeth Alexander reminds the reader that Jordan “was a prolific poet whose lyrical voice linked political struggle with an ethic of love.”

From Salon ● Oct. 30, 2025

‘Only Stars Know the Meaning of Space’ alternates between one through-line narrative — the A-Side — and 10 semi-independent stories — the B-Side.

From Los Angeles Times ● Feb. 21, 2025

She said there was "a through-line" which connected her experience to those families who had lost a child.

From BBC ● Aug. 4, 2024

There is no through-line here, no moral lesson as such; just the chaotic, meaningless interplay of life force, personalities and contingency.

From New York Times ● Feb. 9, 2024