Seinfeld is considered a unique sitcom in how it deviated from the traditional rules of the time, rejecting the classic three-act story in favour of a faster-paced multi-story structure. It was essentially written in a different key, focusing on - and amplifying - the minutiae of daily life, and earning its reputation as the show about nothing.

Seinfeld sidestepped sentimentality as well as the pursuit of resolution. With its mantra of no hugging*, no learning the lead characters were insecure and entertainingly flawed, lacking any desire or capability for personal growth when faced with the slightest adversity or annoyance, and especially in their romantic encounters.

*the first clip notwithstanding!

Despite their flaws, I loved the irreverent characters, with their absurd obsessions and neurotic tendencies, and the hilariously avoidable situations they found themselves in.

As I read more about the show, my fascination with the creative process behind it grew. It was the musicality of the show I found particularly intriguing, orchestrated by the comedic talents of co-creators Jerry Seinfeld and Larry David.

Like music, situation comedy has rhythm and it has texture: rhythm is shaped by a show's timing, its scene-structures, and its pacing; textures are created by the 'instruments' of characters and their locations, which amalgamate to create the situations from which the comedy manifests.