If you watched the recent season 28 premiere of South Park, you might have noticed kids saying “six, seven” with strange glee. You’re not alone in feeling a bit baffled. Teachers, parents, and even recap writers are scratching their heads about this quirky trend, inspired by the show’s portrayal of tech figure Peter Thiel and a fictional cult at South Park Elementary.
Understanding why phrases like “six, seven” become viral is often as confusing as the phrases themselves. Yet, the origins and rise of this trend over recent weeks are clearer. It first appeared in a song by rapper Skrilla, called “Doot Doot,” released in December 2024. The phrase gained insane popularity when TikTok users incorporated it into their videos. One memorable clip featured sports star LaMelo Ball, who is 6 feet 7 inches tall, as fans chanted the phrase courtside.
Once it hit the internet, “six, seven” took on a life of its own. Ask young people what it means, and they’ll simply say, “Nothing.” Miss a math question? “Six, seven” is the go-to answer. Can’t choose between chicken and fish? Just shrug and say “six, seven.” It’s a humorous way to express confusion that has driven adults a bit crazy.
As discussed in a recent Wall Street Journal article, this could be compared to the absurdist works of philosopher Albert Camus. The phrase represents a kind of meaningful absurdity—a way for younger folks to voice feelings of overwhelm in an overstimulating world. It’s playful, but it does reflect generational anxieties.
Memes often start as nonsensical jokes but can grow into something meaningful over time. Look at the phrase “404 Not Found,” once just internet jargon, now used to describe confusion. The “Me when the” meme began as a general expression for uncertainty, conquered by time and trends.
Although today’s “six, seven” may feel timeless, its moment will pass, too. Many memes fade into obscurity, and the generations that follow will remember it only through shows like South Park. In the end, it’s a reminder that humor evolves, reflecting our ever-changing online culture. So, to all those baffled by this quirky trend: “¯\_(ツ)_/¯ 6, 7.”
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