The Origins of the Meme
The “It Rubs the Lotion on Its Skin” meme originated from the 1991 psychological horror film, The Silence of the Lambs. The film follows the story of a young FBI trainee, Clarice Starling, as she attempts to track down a serial killer known as Buffalo Bill. One of the most memorable scenes from the film features Buffalo Bill abducting a woman and forcing her to apply lotion to her skin while he watches.
Years after the film’s release, the quote “It rubs the lotion on its skin or else it gets the hose again” became a popular internet meme. The quote is often used to express a sense of urgency or desperation in a humorous way.
The Spread of the Meme
The “It Rubs the Lotion on Its Skin” meme first gained popularity on internet forums in the early 2000s. It quickly spread to social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter, where it continues to be shared and referenced today.
One of the reasons why the meme has been so popular is its versatility. It can be used in a variety of contexts, from expressing frustration with a difficult task to poking fun at someone’s obsession with skincare.
The Dark Side of the Meme
While the “It Rubs the Lotion on Its Skin” meme may be funny to some, it’s important to acknowledge the dark origins of the quote. The scene in The Silence of the Lambs is a graphic depiction of violence against women, and it’s important to remember that when using the quote in a humorous context.
Some have also criticized the meme for trivializing the issue of violence against women. By turning a disturbing scene into a joke, the meme can be seen as making light of a serious issue.
Using the Meme Responsibly
While the “It Rubs the Lotion on Its Skin” meme can be a fun and lighthearted way to express yourself online, it’s important to use it responsibly. When using the meme, it’s important to remember the origins of the quote and to avoid making light of serious issues like violence against women.
It’s also important to be mindful of how the meme may be perceived by others. What may seem like a harmless joke to you could be offensive or triggering to someone else.
The Future of the Meme
As with all internet memes, it’s hard to predict the future of the “It Rubs the Lotion on Its Skin” meme. It’s possible that the meme will continue to be popular for years to come, or it may eventually fade into obscurity.
Regardless of what happens, it’s clear that the meme has left its mark on internet culture. It’s a testament to the power of pop culture to inspire creativity and humor in unexpected ways.
Conclusion
The “It Rubs the Lotion on Its Skin” meme may have dark origins, but it has become a lighthearted way for people to express themselves online. While it’s important to use the meme responsibly and be mindful of its origins, it’s also a testament to the power of pop culture to inspire creativity and humor.
As we move forward into the future, it will be interesting to see how this and other memes continue to shape internet culture and the way we communicate online.