My last post was on the merits of the common saying, “It is what it is.” The popularity of that post left me wanting to expound upon another saying that is heard frequently, “it doesn’t matter.” Often, “it doesn’t matter” is meant quite literally. That isn’t what this post is about.

As with, “it is what it is,” “it doesn’t matter” is often meant facetiously. The individual is usually frustrated or angry, and says it with an air of resignation. In truth, it does matter to him, but he is resigned that it doesn’t seem to matter to the other. In a way, he …