Currently on season 2 and I had no idea there would be themes of alienation, nihilism, searching for meaning and belonging, and crumbling of the American dream, etc. I thought it was just a crime drama with some comedy involved. I'm pleasantly surprised and its making rediscover my gabagool side.
This is because the characterisation is so good. It doesn't really matter if a scene really has a purpose within the larger plot, as long as it illustrates how the different characters interact.
Even the 'lesser' seasons are still a joy because the characters are so great.
You’re so right, put it into words much better than I did!