The "What in tarnation?" meme, a humorous expression of confusion and disbelief, has taken the internet by storm, becoming a popular phenomenon in the world of digital humor. Yet, understanding its origins and appeal necessitates a deep dive into the realms of internet culture and humor.
Originating from the Southern United States' expression "what in tarnation," the phrase has historically been used to convey surprise or disbelief. However, it's the internet that breathed new life into this old adage, transforming it into a meme that has since taken on a life of its own.
The "What in tarnation?" Meme and Its Rise in Popularity
The meme typically features an image, commonly a pet or an animal, looking confused, upset, or otherwise emotional. Overlaid on this image is the text "what in tarnation" or a variation of it, creating a comedic effect that has resonated with internet users worldwide.
The meme's popularity can be attributed to its universality and accessibility. Its use of animals, which evoke empathy and understanding, combined with the universal confusion expressed by the phrase, creates a relatable scenario that KnowYourMeme.com blog has labeled as "amusing and easy to understand."
Variations of the "What in tarnation?" Meme
The simplicity and humor of the meme have spawned numerous variations. Some feature different phrases like "what in heavens," "what in sam hill," and even humorous substitutes for "tarnation."
Others manipulate the image, using famous faces or anthropomorphic animals to create further comedic effect. Some creative users have even combined it with other memes, creating a whole new level of humor and confusion.
Cultural Impact and Usage
The "what in tarnation" meme has transcended its digital origins, becoming a part of modern popular culture. It's been used in TV shows, movies, and even advertising. Its cultural impact was evident during the 2020 U.S. Presidential Election, with Joe Biden's campaign using a "what in tarnation?" Dogs meme to express disbelief at Donald Trump's actions.
Moreover, the meme has become associated with specific emotions and situations, often used to express confusion, annoyance, or disbelief. Its versatility and relatability have made it a staple of internet humor.
The Psychology Behind the "What in tarnation?" Meme
To understand the meme's enduring appeal, one must delve into psychology. Humans are social creatures who frequently experience and share emotions. The "what in tarnation" meme allows us to express and relate to these shared emotions in a humorous way.
Psychologist Dr. Scott Barry Kaufman noted that humor is a crucial aspect of human psychological well-being. It helps us cope with stress and connect with others. The "what in tarnation" meme, with its relatable confusion and amusing delivery, checks both these boxes.
The Role of Animals in the Meme
Animals play a significant role in the meme's success. Studies have shown that humans tend to anthropomorphize animals, attributing human qualities to them. This attribution makes the meme relatable and humorous, as we can project our own emotions onto the animals.
Additionally, the use of animals can evoke a sense of innocence or purity, making the profanity-laced confusion of the meme more palatable. This seeming contradiction - an innocent animal expressing profanity - is often a source of comedic value.
In the vast landscape of internet humor, the "what in tarnation" meme stands out as a testament to humanity's capacity for creativity, emotion, and connection. As the internet continues to evolve, we can expect to see new variations of this classic meme, each one a unique reflection of our shared human experience.