ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on two examples that even take care to suggest that nothing much happens in terms of plot. Characters waste time, play meaningless games, and take pleasure in idleness. In their titles, both Much Ado About Nothing and As You Like It make a point of being inconsequential, as if they say, "Go ahead and do whatever you want. Commenters on a YouTube video of a live performance of "(What's So Funny 'Bout) Peace, Love, and Understanding" by Elvis Costello and Nick Lowe have strong feelings about what makes for a good peace song and how this particular song should be performed. Shakespeare shares with these commenters the belief that there is more than one way to compose a peace anthem. Shakespeareans have often described Much Ado About Nothing as a secret "problem play" that feels more like a tragi-comedy than a fun romp.
