The “why are you like this” meme has become a ubiquitous expression of exasperation and bewilderment online. But its origins and cultural significance go deeper than a simple image macro. This article delves into the meme’s evolution, its connection to millennial and Gen Z humor, and its surprising leap to the small screen with the Australian comedy series, “Why Are You Like This.”
From Online Quip to Cultural Touchstone
The “why are you like this” meme typically features an image of a person or character behaving in a frustrating or inexplicable manner. The phrase, often overlaid on the image, encapsulates the feeling of being exasperated by someone’s absurd actions. Its versatility allows it to apply to a wide range of situations, from minor annoyances to major social faux pas. This adaptability has contributed to its widespread use and enduring popularity across social media platforms. The meme resonates particularly with younger generations who often use it to satirize awkward social interactions, frustrating technological glitches, and the general absurdity of modern life.
A still from the TV show “Why Are You Like This” demonstrating behavior that might inspire the meme.
“Why Are You Like This,” the TV Show: A Millennial and Gen Z Mirror
The meme’s cultural relevance extends beyond the digital realm. In 2021, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) premiered a comedy series titled “Why Are You Like This.” Created by Naomi Higgins and Humyara Mahbub, the show centers around three friends in their early twenties navigating the complexities of modern life in Melbourne. The series tackles issues like social media, identity politics, and cancel culture with a darkly comedic tone. While the characters initially seem to embody the stereotypical “shameless millennial,” the show delves deeper, exploring the nuances of Gen Z anxieties and their relationship with online culture.
The creative team behind the show: Mark Bonanno, Naomi Higgins, and Humyara Mahbub.
The show’s title directly references the meme, highlighting the self-aware and often ironic humor that permeates the series. The characters frequently engage in behaviors that would likely inspire the use of the meme in real life. Their struggles with social etiquette, ethical dilemmas, and the pressures of online life resonate with a generation constantly grappling with similar issues.
Beyond “Shameless Millennials”: Nihilism and the New Wave of Twenty-Somethings
“Why Are You Like This” challenges the simplistic portrayal of millennials and Gen Z as merely self-absorbed and entitled. The show delves into the underlying anxieties and nihilistic tendencies that often characterize these generations. The characters grapple with a sense of meaninglessness in a world saturated with information and outrage. This nuanced portrayal resonates with viewers who recognize the challenges of navigating a complex and often overwhelming social landscape.
Mia (Olivia Junkeer) and Penny (Naomi Higgins) in a scene from “Why Are You Like This.”
Conclusion: The Meme’s Enduring Legacy
The “why are you like this” meme’s journey from online joke to the title of a critically acclaimed TV series exemplifies its cultural impact. The meme captures a specific sentiment of frustration and bewilderment that resonates across generations. The show, in turn, uses the meme as a springboard to explore the complexities of contemporary life for young adults, offering a darkly comedic yet insightful commentary on the challenges and anxieties of the digital age. The meme and the show serve as a reflection of, and a response to, the absurdities of modern existence, solidifying their place in internet and pop culture history.
