What is the term for the central idea that ties together a narrative's themes and details?

The central idea that ties together a narrative's themes and details is referred to as the main idea. This concept encapsulates the primary focus of the narrative, allowing readers to grasp the overarching message or theme that emerges through the various elements of the story, including the characters, events, and setting. In narratives, the main idea serves as a foundation that connects different aspects of the plot and the characters' journeys, making it easier for readers to understand the author's intent and the message being conveyed.

Other terms like thesis statement, topic sentence, and concluding statement serve specific purposes in writing. A thesis statement typically outlines the main argument in essays or research, while a topic sentence introduces the main idea of a particular paragraph. A concluding statement summarizes the points made and provides closure. While these elements are important in their own contexts, they do not capture the overarching essence of a narrative in the same way that the main idea does.