The Story Behind the "Too Damn High" Meme: Who Created It and Why?

01 May 2024
us
Murphy

Remember that iconic image of a man with a bewildered expression and the caption "____ is too damn high"? Of course you do! It's one of those internet relics that never truly fades away, popping up in various forms whenever a price hike, absurd situation, or relatable struggle emerges. But have you ever stopped to wonder about the origins of this meme or the person who first uttered the phrase "too damn high" with such relatable despair?

The journey of the "too damn high" meme is a fascinating one, illustrating how a single image and phrase can capture the zeitgeist and become a universal symbol of frustration and humor. This exploration delves into the meme's origins, its cultural impact, and the enduring legacy of the man behind it all.

Our story takes us back to 2012, a time when memes as we know them were still finding their footing. This particular meme originated from a rather unexpected source: a public access television interview. The man in the image, whose name you'll discover shortly, wasn't a comedian or internet personality; he was a passionate individual advocating for a cause he deeply believed in.

As we delve further, you'll learn about the context of that interview, the message the man aimed to convey, and how his words, accompanied by his unforgettable expression, took on a life of their own. We'll explore the mechanics of internet fame and how this particular meme transcended its original context to become a ubiquitous symbol of everyday grievances.

So, buckle up and get ready for a trip down memory lane as we unpack the history, the humor, and the enduring appeal of the "too damn high" meme. You might be surprised by what you learn about this seemingly simple image and the man who unwittingly became the face of internet frustration. Let's dive in!

While tracing the exact origin and creator of a meme can be tricky (like trying to catch smoke!), the "too damn high" meme has a clear starting point. The man in the image is none other than Jimmy McMillan, founder of the Rent Is Too Damn High Party in New York. In 2010, during a gubernatorial debate, McMillan's passionate declaration about exorbitant rent prices, delivered with a straight face and unwavering conviction, became an instant internet sensation.

The image, often isolated from the original context, quickly became a versatile meme format. People began adding their own captions, replacing "rent" with everything from "gas prices" and "student loan debt" to "the expectations for this job" and "the volume on this bus." The meme's brilliance lies in its simplicity and relatability. It perfectly encapsulates the feeling of exasperation we've all experienced when faced with something absurdly overpriced or unreasonable.

While McMillan's political aspirations might not have reached the heights he intended, his impact on internet culture is undeniable. The "too damn high" meme, a testament to the power of a simple yet relatable message, continues to resonate with people worldwide. It serves as a reminder that even in the often-absurd landscape of the internet, authenticity and a touch of humor can leave a lasting mark.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Meme Culture

Advantages	Disadvantages
Can bring humor and levity to serious topics	Can trivialize important issues
Can foster a sense of community and shared experience	Can lead to the spread of misinformation
Can be a powerful tool for social commentary and critique	Can be used for bullying and harassment

Best Practices for Engaging with Memes

While memes can be entertaining and thought-provoking, it's essential to engage with them responsibly. Here are a few best practices to keep in mind:

Consider the context: Understanding the origin and original message of a meme can help you interpret it accurately and avoid misunderstandings.
Be mindful of the impact: Before sharing a meme, think about how it might affect others, especially those from different backgrounds or with different lived experiences.
Verify information: Don't believe everything you see online. If a meme presents information as fact, take the time to verify it from reputable sources.
Engage respectfully: Even when disagreeing with a meme's message, express your views respectfully and avoid personal attacks.
Be aware of copyright: Some memes may be protected by copyright. Avoid using them for commercial purposes without permission.

The "too damn high" meme, like many viral sensations, might have started as a fleeting moment in internet history. However, its endurance speaks volumes about its relatability and the power of simple, impactful messaging. It reminds us that sometimes, all it takes is a single phrase, delivered with sincerity and a memorable expression, to spark a cultural phenomenon.

So the next time you come across the "too damn high" meme, take a moment to appreciate its quirky origins and the message it continues to convey. It's a testament to the power of humor, the universality of shared frustrations, and the unpredictable nature of internet fame.