Here are some examples of how to see the four throughlines of some well-known stories. Completed stories tend to blend these throughlines together in the interest of smooth narrative style. From a structural point of view, however, it is important to see how they can be separated.

Star Wars

Overall Story Throughline: The Overall view of Star Wars sees a civil war in the galaxy between the Rebels and the evil Empire. The Empire has built a Death Star that will destroy the Rebels if it isn't destroyed first. To even hope for a successful attack, the Rebels need the plans to the Death Star that are in the possession of a farm boy and an old Jedi master. These two face many other characters while delivering the plans, ultimately leading to a climactic space-battle on the surface of the Death Star.

Main Character Throughline: The Main Character of Star Wars is Luke Skywalker. This throughline follows his personal growth over the course of this story. Luke is a farm boy who dreams of being a star pilot, but he can't allow himself to leave his foster parents to follow his dreams. He learns that he is the son of a great Jedi Knight. When his foster parents are killed, he begins studying the religion of the Jedi: The Force. Surviving many dangerous situations, Luke learns to trust himself more and more. Eventually he makes a leap of faith to trust his feelings over his computer technology while flying into battle as the Rebel's last hope of destroying the Death Star. It turns out well, and the experience changes Luke for the better.

Impact Character Throughline: The Impact Character of Star Wars is Obi-Wan Kenobi and this throughline describes his impact (especially on Luke Skywalker) over the course of the story. Obi-Wan is a wizened old Jedi who sees everything as being under the mystic control of the Force. He amazes people with his resiliency and ability, all of which he credits to the Force and one's willingness to open oneself to the Force.

Subjective Story Throughline: The Subjective Story throughline of Star Wars describes the relationship between Luke and Obi-Wan. Obi-Wan needs Luke to help him and he knows Luke has incredible potential as a Jedi. Luke, however, needs guidance because his desires are so strong and his abilities so new. Obi-Wan sets about the manipulations that will help Luke see the true nature of the Force and learn to trust himself.

To Kill A Mockingbird

Overall Story Throughline: The Overall view of To Kill A Mockingbird sees the town of Maycomb with its horns locked in various attitudes over the rape trial of Tom Robinson. Due process has taken over, however many people think this case should never see trial. As the trial comes to fruition, the people of the town argue back and forth about how the defense lawyer ought to behave. They also discuss the role people should take in response to this alleged atrocity.

Main Character Throughline: The Main Character of To Kill A Mockingbird is Scout and her throughline describes her personal experiences in this story. Scout is a young tomboy who wants her life to remain as simple as it's always been. Going to school, however, and seeing the town's reaction to her father's work introduces her to a new world of emotional complexity. She learns there is much more to people than you can see.

Impact Character Throughline: Boo Radley presents the Impact Character point of view in To Kill A Mockingbird. Boo is the reclusive and much talked about boy living next door to Scout. The mystique surrounding this boy, fueled by the town's ignorance and fear, make everyone wonder what he is like and if he's as crazy as they say.

Subjective Story Throughline: The Subjective Story view of To Kill A Mockingbird sees the relationship between Scout and Boo Radley. This throughline explores what it's like for these two characters to live next door to each other and never get to know each other. It seems any friendship they might have is doomed from the start because Boo will always be locked away in his father's house. The real problem, however, turns out to be one of Scout's prejudice against Boo's mysterious life. Boo has been constantly active in Scout's life, protecting her from his position in the background. When Scout finally realizes this she becomes a changed person who no longer judges people without first trying to stand in their shoes.