Definition And Origin

What Does "Walk the Line" Mean?

Definition and Origin

The phrase "walk the line" means to follow rules or balance choices. It has its roots in the musical theater, particularly the 1956 Broadway show and subsequent 1957 movie "Walk the Line." In the show and movie, the protagonist, Johnny Cash, is faced with the choice between following his musical aspirations and settling down into a more conventional life.

Literary and Figurative Meanings

In literature, "walking the line" often refers to the delicate balance between right and wrong or good and evil. It can also represent the struggle to maintain one's integrity in the face of adversity. Figuratively, "walking the line" can be used to describe any situation where a person must carefully navigate between two extremes or competing demands.

Contemporary Usage

The phrase "walk the line" is still commonly used today in a variety of contexts, including: *

In politics, it can refer to the ability of a politician to balance different interests and perspectives while making decisions.

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In business, it can describe the need to strike a balance between profitability and ethical conduct.

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In personal life, it can refer to the ability to maintain healthy relationships while also pursuing one's own goals.

Streaming Availability

The movie "Walk the Line" is currently available for streaming on fuboTV. It is also available for purchase on various platforms such as Amazon Video and iTunes.