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I completely agree with your characterization of the “not so subtle pattern” that is intrinsic to popular television. It seems that the most successful and enduring series (Law and Order, CSI, etc.) are the ones that abide by an addictive formula, that while identifiable, does not become so absolute as to bore the viewer. The challenge with the genre that is a television series is that, to succeed, it must appeal to a wide audience--it must be made for easy consumption. At the same time, it must have a distinguishing characteristic, an unusual premise or a compelling or outlandish character, that differentiates it from the rest of the formulas vying for a place in popular culture. Our culture is bound by the comfort of such formulas, which somehow have to integrate the social interests of any given time and place to achieve wide appeal.