Show Tune That Makes No Sense? – Decoding Crossword Clues and Musical Theatre Quirks
Navigating the world of crossword puzzles is an adventure in language, logic, and a dash of pop culture knowledge. One specific corner of this world, the intersection of musical theatre and crossword clues, can be particularly baffling, delightfully so. Today, we’re diving into a clue that’s been popping up with surprising frequency: “Show tune that makes no sense?“
What makes a show tune “make no sense?” Is it the lyrical content? The plot of the show it originates from? The absurdity of the scenario being presented? The answer, of course, depends on the specific tune in question, and the intended meaning the puzzle constructor has embedded. But let’s dissect the types of songs that tend to fall into this category and strategies for approaching such a crossword clue.
Lyrical Nonsense and the Embrace of the Absurd
One strong candidate category is songs that embrace deliberate lyrical nonsense. Think of the playfully convoluted rhymes of Gilbert and Sullivan, or the intentionally fractured syntax found in many contemporary musicals. These songs prioritize musicality and comedic effect over straightforward narrative. They revel in wordplay, alliteration, and internal rhymes, often creating a sonic tapestry that’s more about texture than direct meaning. A show tune might contain lines that, when taken literally, are utterly illogical, yet contribute to the overall humorous or satirical tone.
Plot-Driven Absurdity: Context is Key
Another angle to consider is the absurdity arising from the plot of the show itself. Musical theatre, at its best, allows for a suspension of disbelief. Characters burst into song in heightened emotional states, situations escalate to improbable levels, and coincidences abound. Within this framework, songs can depict scenarios that, outside the context of the play, seem utterly bizarre. Perhaps a character is singing about communicating with animals, or navigating a dream landscape, or even lamenting the loss of a sentient vegetable. Understanding the plot synopsis, even at a high level, can unlock the meaning of these seemingly nonsensical songs.
Character-Driven Irrationality: The Mad Song
A third possibility lies in songs that showcase a character’s descent into madness, confusion, or altered states of consciousness. These songs are often characterized by fragmented lyrics, disjointed melodies, and a general sense of disorientation. The “nonsensical” aspect arises not from the song itself being inherently illogical, but from the character’s impaired perception of reality. Think of a character under the influence of a potion, or experiencing a psychological breakdown, or simply in the throes of a particularly intense emotion. The song reflects their internal state, even if that state is far removed from logical coherence.
Crossword Strategies: Decoding the Clue
When faced with “Show tune that makes no sense?” in a crossword puzzle, consider the following strategies:
Check the Length:
The number of spaces provided is your first and most valuable clue.
Consider the Era:
Are you dealing with a classic musical from the Golden Age, or something more contemporary? This will narrow down your potential candidates.
Think Broadly:
Don’t get stuck on literal interpretations of “makes no sense.” Consider all the possibilities outlined above: lyrical absurdity, plot-driven improbability, and character-driven irrationality.
Cross-Referencing:
Use the letters from already solved intersecting words to guide your search. A single letter can often be enough to trigger a memory or suggest a possible title.
Google is Your Friend (but Use it Wisely):
If you’re truly stumped, a targeted search like “musical theatre absurd songs” or “songs about madness musicals” can provide helpful leads.
Solving crossword clues requires more than just raw knowledge. It demands creative thinking, pattern recognition, and a willingness to embrace the unexpected. The clue “Show tune that makes no sense?” epitomizes this challenge, inviting you to delve into the whimsical, illogical, and ultimately delightful world of musical theatre.
Available Answers:
IRRATIONALNUMBER.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Washington Post Crossword -Sunday’s Daily By Adam Simpson & Katie Hale / Ed. Patti Varol