The phrase "What in tarnation" is a lighthearted, slightly old-fashioned way of expressing surprise or disbelief. It's a modern equivalent to a good ol' "Well, what do you know?" or "You don't say!". While it's origins are rooted in the past, it has found new life in recent years, fueled by its usage in memes.
However, when we talk about the "What in tarnation" meme, we're specifically referring to a popular internet meme that incorporates this phrase. Let's dive into the origin, context, and evolution of this meme that has brought the phrase into the digital age.
The Origin and First Appearance of the What in Tarnation Meme
The "What in tarnation" meme first appeared in late 2018, although its precise origins are quite a bit older. The phrase itself dates back to the early 20th century, used as a mild exclamation of surprise. The meme's modern iteration, however, can be traced back to a Vine - a now-defunct six-second looping video app - from 2014.
The Vine in question shows a visibly surprised young woman react to a carrot being pulled from a bag, exclaiming, "What in tarnation?" Although it resurfaced occasionally in the ensuing years, it wasn't until 2018 that the "What in tarnation" meme truly took off.
How the Memes Are Structured
Authletes (as meme creators are often called) typically frame the original Vine clip as a before and after visual. The first half of the clip shows an individual (usually an animal or human) engaged in a mundane or banal activity. The second half, however, reveals something unexpected or dramatic, prompting the "What in tarnation" reaction.
These unexpected reveals can range from humorous to startling, and the overall effect is a meme that is both relatable and engaging. The comedy lies in the juxtaposition of the mundane and the extraordinary, with "What in tarnation" serving as the perfect exclamation to encapsulate this reaction.
Variations of the What in Tarnation Meme
Once the "What in tarnation" meme gained traction, it didn't take long for creators to begin experimenting with variations. Some memes feature different reactions, such as a character screaming, laughing, or merely staring in disbelief. Others change the phrase, replacing "tarnation" with words like "creation" or "condition" for humorous effect.
Some creators have even taken to making non-visual "What in tarnation" memes. These involve a simple before-and-after text description, distances itself from the visual aspect, and relies more on the imagination, interpretation, and social context of viewers.
The Cultural Impact and Endurance of the What in Tarnation Meme
The "What in tarnation" meme has become a staple of internet culture, having aged gracefully and overcome the ephemerality that plagues so many internet trends. Its enduring appeal lies in part to the relatable and universal human reaction it encompasses.
It also fits snugly into the broader intertexture of meme culture and humor, drawing from the rich well of shared experiences that exists within online communities. Moreover, it has endured because of its versatility, having been successfully applied to a wide range of subjects and scenarios.
The "What in Tarnation" Meme and Internet Memetics
On a broader level, the "What in tarnation" meme serves as a fascinating case study in internet memetics. It illustrates how a phrase, a Vine, and a meme can be organically combined to create something new, fully-realized, and>)
Not only that, but it demonstrates how this creation can then be independently mutated and adapted by others. This iterative cycle of creation and adaptation is the lifeblood of internet meme culture and a powerful reminder of the creativity and ingenuity of online communities.
So the next time you stumble across a "What in tarnation" meme, take a moment to appreciate the rich history and cultural significance of this timeless expression. Whether you're a seasoned internet native or a newcomer to meme culture, there's always more to uncover in the world of online humor. Keep exploring, and who knows - you might even spark the next big meme trend!