They Don’t Know Meme Template

Wojak stands alone with a drink while everyone else dances. Add the private thought, obscure achievement, or wish to go home that occupies him more than the party.

The contrast is between what matters inside the character’s head and what everyone else is doing. His achievement may be impressive in one small community and irrelevant in this room.

The joke often turns inward: the speaker wants recognition for something nobody at the party has any reason to notice. It can also express the simple wish to leave and return to a favorite activity.

An early version of the party drawing appeared on Sad and Useless on December 16, 2009. Its caption expressed a wish to be at home playing video games. Later variations kept the lonely figure and changed what he would rather be doing. [1]

On November 28, 2020, Twitter user @urmomlolroasted posted a version beginning “They don’t know,” referring to an online reputation invisible to the people at the party. Similar jokes spread across Twitter, Instagram, and Reddit over the following days. [1]

Put the thought in the open space to the right of Wojak’s head, above the dancers. Leave the solitary figure and the surrounding couples visible.

Begin with “They don’t know” and add one specific, modest accomplishment. For the older version, start with “I wish I was at home” and name the activity.

The private thought

In the blank area above the dancers.

• Use first-person wording.
• Choose a small achievement or private preoccupation.
• Keep the dancers free of extra labels.
• Let the contrast with the party supply the joke.