Jackson Reed
The What about second breakfast? template has become a beloved and widely recognized meme, originating from a memorable line in *The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring*. Spoken by the hobbit character Pippin, the phrase humorously highlights the hobbits’ love for frequent meals, resonating with audiences for its relatability and charm. Over time, the template has evolved into a versatile internet joke, used to jokingly question or emphasize the need for additional snacks, breaks, or indulgences in everyday situations. Its enduring popularity lies in its simplicity and universal appeal, making it a go-to reference for anyone looking to add a touch of whimsy or humor to their conversations or online content.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Origin | Inspired by a line from The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien. |
| Quote | "What about second breakfast?" – spoken by Hobbits in the Shire. |
| Template Usage | Memes, jokes, and discussions about additional meals or snacks. |
| Popular Platforms | Reddit, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, and other social media. |
| Context | Often used humorously to justify eating multiple meals in a day. |
| Cultural Reference | Highlights Hobbit culture, known for their love of food and frequent meals. |
| Variations | "What about elevenses? Luncheon? Afternoon tea?" – additional Hobbit meals. |
| Meme Format | Image macros, text-based jokes, or GIFs featuring Hobbits or food. |
| Relevance | Timeless, as it taps into universal themes of hunger and indulgence. |
| Hashtags | #SecondBreakfast, #HobbitLife, #LOTRMemes, #FoodieHumor. |
| Latest Trend | Used in discussions about intermittent fasting vs. frequent eating habits. |
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What You'll Learn
- Origin of the Meme: Traced back to The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien, popularized by internet culture
- Template Structure: Features a character asking, What about second breakfast with a humorous twist
- Popularity Surge: Gained traction on Reddit, Twitter, and meme-sharing platforms in the 2010s
- Versatility in Use: Applied to daily routines, work, and procrastination humor universally
- Cultural Impact: Highlights relatable hunger and snack culture in modern meme discourse
Origin of the Meme: Traced back to The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien, popularized by internet culture
The phrase "What about second breakfast?" originates from J.R.R. Tolkien’s *The Hobbit*, where the character Thorin Oakenshield casually mentions it during a conversation about meal schedules. This line, seemingly trivial in the context of Middle-earth, has since transcended its literary roots to become a cornerstone of internet meme culture. Its appeal lies in its absurd practicality—a reminder that hobbits prioritize meals with almost religious fervor. This specificity, combined with the phrase’s rhythmic simplicity, made it ripe for adaptation into a viral template.
Analyzing its transformation into a meme reveals a fascinating interplay between text and image. The template typically features a screenshot or illustration of a character (often from *The Lord of the Rings* films) paired with the question, "What about second breakfast?" followed by a humorous or unexpected response. For instance, a meme might depict Gandalf asking Frodo about the Ring, only to pivot to the more pressing matter of additional meals. This structure leverages the contrast between high-stakes fantasy drama and mundane culinary concerns, creating a comedic effect that resonates across fandoms.
To create your own version of this meme, start by identifying a scenario where a character’s priorities are comically misaligned. Use a high-quality image or GIF from *The Hobbit* or *The Lord of the Rings* for authenticity. Overlay the text "What about second breakfast?" in a bold, readable font, followed by a punchy retort or non sequitur. For maximum impact, keep the humor light and relatable—think "What about second breakfast?" paired with a screenshot of a character facing an existential crisis. Tools like Canva or Adobe Spark can simplify the design process, ensuring your meme is polished and shareable.
The enduring popularity of this meme underscores its versatility. It’s not just for Tolkien fans; it’s been adapted to comment on everything from workplace culture to political discourse. For example, a meme might show a politician discussing policy, only to be interrupted by the question, "What about second breakfast?" This adaptability speaks to the universal appeal of humor rooted in everyday absurdities. By grounding fantastical elements in relatable scenarios, the meme bridges the gap between niche fandom and mainstream internet culture.
In conclusion, the "What about second breakfast?" template is a testament to the power of Tolkien’s world-building and the creativity of online communities. Its origins in *The Hobbit* provide a solid foundation, while its meme iterations showcase the boundless potential of repurposing literary references for modern humor. Whether you’re a die-hard Tolkien fan or a casual meme enthusiast, this template offers a delightful way to engage with both the fantastical and the mundane. So next time you’re crafting a meme, remember: even in Middle-earth, timing is everything—especially when it comes to meals.
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Template Structure: Features a character asking, What about second breakfast? with a humorous twist
The "What about second breakfast?" template thrives on the absurdity of prioritizing indulgence over practicality. This structure hinges on a character, often portrayed with a mix of naivety and insatiable appetite, interrupting a serious situation or mundane routine with the seemingly nonsensical question. Think of it as a comedic grenade thrown into the middle of a board meeting, a battle strategy session, or a philosophical debate. The humor lies in the jarring contrast between the gravity of the context and the character's single-minded focus on their next meal.
For maximum comedic effect, the character's delivery should be deadpan, as if second breakfast is the most logical and pressing concern in the universe.
Crafting this template effectively requires a delicate balance. The character's obsession with second breakfast shouldn't feel forced or random. Instead, it should stem from a believable (albeit exaggerated) personality trait. Perhaps they're a hobbit-like creature with a bottomless pit for a stomach, a stressed-out student fueled solely by caffeine and carbs, or a mischievous child exploiting their cute factor for culinary gain. The key is to establish the character's relationship with food early on, making their sudden interjection feel both unexpected and inevitable.
A well-executed "What about second breakfast?" moment can be a powerful tool for subverting expectations and injecting levity into any narrative.
Consider the pacing of your scene. The question should land at a moment of heightened tension or seriousness, amplifying the comedic impact. Imagine a detective, on the verge of cracking a case, being interrupted by their partner's insistent demand for a mid-morning snack. Or a superhero, mid-battle with a villain, pausing to inquire about the availability of post-fight brunch options. The more incongruous the setting, the funnier the question becomes.
Remember, the beauty of this template lies in its simplicity. Don't overcomplicate the joke with excessive explanation or follow-up. Let the absurdity of the question speak for itself, allowing the audience to fill in the hilarious implications. A well-placed "What about second breakfast?" can leave a lasting impression, transforming a mundane scenario into a memorable moment of comedic gold.
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Popularity Surge: Gained traction on Reddit, Twitter, and meme-sharing platforms in the 2010s
The "What about second breakfast?" template, rooted in a line from *The Lord of the Rings*, surged in popularity during the 2010s thanks to its versatility and relatability. Reddit’s r/memes and r/lotr subreddits became breeding grounds for its early adoption, where users repurposed the phrase to humorously question the necessity of additional meals or tasks. For instance, a meme might depict a tired office worker captioned, “What about second coffee?”—a twist that resonated with anyone overwhelmed by daily demands. This simplicity allowed the template to transcend its fantasy origins and embed itself in everyday humor.
Twitter amplified the meme’s reach by pairing it with trending topics, from productivity culture to dietary habits. Users leveraged the template to critique societal norms, such as the glorification of overwork (“What about second deadline?”) or the absurdity of meal-tracking apps (“What about second snack?”). Hashtags like #SecondBreakfast and #HobbitLife further fueled its virality, creating a shared language among meme enthusiasts. The platform’s character limit forced creativity, ensuring the joke remained concise and impactful.
Meme-sharing platforms like 9GAG and Instagram solidified the template’s dominance by catering to visual learners. Here, the meme evolved into image macros featuring characters from *The Office* or *Parks and Recreation*, blending fandoms to broaden its appeal. Practical tips emerged alongside the humor: productivity gurus repurposed the phrase to advocate for structured breaks (“What about second pause?”), while food bloggers used it to promote balanced eating (“What about second serving of veggies?”). This dual role—entertaining and instructive—ensured its longevity.
A comparative analysis reveals why this meme thrived where others faltered. Unlike niche references that require insider knowledge, “What about second breakfast?” balanced specificity (its *LOTR* roots) with universality (the human need for more). Its rise coincided with the 2010s’ meme culture boom, where platforms prioritized shareability over originality. Cautionary tales of overused templates (e.g., “One Does Not Simply”) highlight the importance of adaptability, which this meme mastered by staying relevant across contexts.
In conclusion, the “What about second breakfast?” template’s 2010s surge was no accident. Its success on Reddit, Twitter, and meme-sharing platforms stemmed from a blend of accessibility, adaptability, and timing. For creators today, the takeaway is clear: memes that bridge specific and universal themes, while encouraging user reinterpretation, are poised for lasting impact. Whether critiquing modern life or advocating for self-care, this template proves that even a hobbit’s appetite can spark a cultural phenomenon.
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Versatility in Use: Applied to daily routines, work, and procrastination humor universally
The "What about second breakfast?" template, inspired by *The Hobbit*, has transcended its literary origins to become a versatile tool for injecting humor and relatability into daily life, work, and even procrastination. Its adaptability lies in its ability to reframe mundane tasks or moments of indecision as whimsical opportunities for indulgence or avoidance. For instance, when faced with a daunting to-do list, one might pause and ask, "What about second breakfast?"—a playful excuse to prioritize a snack over productivity. This template thrives on its universal appeal, tapping into shared experiences of hunger, fatigue, or the desire to escape responsibility, making it a go-to for lighthearted deflection.
In daily routines, the template serves as a reminder to embrace small pleasures. Consider the morning rush: instead of skipping breakfast altogether, one could use the phrase to justify a quick, second helping of toast or a mid-morning smoothie. It’s not about overindulgence but about acknowledging the human need for breaks and treats. For parents, it can be a humorous way to connect with kids during chaotic mornings, turning "What about second breakfast?" into a family ritual. Even fitness enthusiasts can repurpose it, using the phrase to schedule nutrient-dense snacks between meals without guilt. The key is to balance whimsy with practicality, ensuring the "second breakfast" enhances, rather than derails, the day.
At work, the template doubles as a coping mechanism and a social icebreaker. During back-to-back meetings or tight deadlines, a colleague might jokingly ask, "What about second breakfast?" to lighten the mood or signal the need for a mental reset. It’s a non-confrontational way to address burnout culture, subtly advocating for self-care in high-pressure environments. Managers can even use it to encourage team bonding, organizing mid-morning snack breaks to boost morale. However, caution is necessary: overuse in professional settings might risk trivializing serious issues, so timing and tone are critical. When applied thoughtfully, it fosters a culture of humor and humanity in the workplace.
In the realm of procrastination, the template shines as both a humorous confession and a gentle nudge toward action. Instead of berating oneself for avoiding a task, one might laughingly admit, "I’ll get to it after second breakfast," transforming guilt into self-awareness. This approach aligns with productivity strategies like the Pomodoro Technique, where breaks are intentional and guilt-free. For students or creatives, pairing the phrase with a timer can make procrastination breaks feel structured rather than aimless. For example, commit to 25 minutes of work, followed by a 5-minute "second breakfast" break. The humor in the template reduces the stress of perfectionism, making it easier to re-engage with tasks afterward.
Ultimately, the "What about second breakfast?" template is a testament to the power of humor in navigating life’s demands. Its versatility stems from its ability to adapt to various contexts—whether as a daily ritual, a workplace joke, or a procrastination tool—while maintaining its core message of self-compassion and joy. By embracing this template, individuals can find moments of lightness in their routines, fostering a healthier relationship with productivity and indulgence. The next time you’re overwhelmed, ask yourself: "What about second breakfast?"—and let the humor guide you to a more balanced day.
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Cultural Impact: Highlights relatable hunger and snack culture in modern meme discourse
The "What About Second Breakfast" template, rooted in *The Lord of the Rings* fandom, has transcended its origins to become a cultural touchstone for snack enthusiasts everywhere. By humorously validating the universal craving for mid-morning sustenance, it taps into a shared experience: the gap between breakfast and lunch that only a second meal can fill. This meme’t template doesn’t just celebrate snacking—it elevates it to a ritual, mirroring the rise of "brunch" culture and the modern obsession with grazing throughout the day.
Consider the template’s structure: a character (often Hobbit-like) questions why a second breakfast isn’t already on the table. This setup invites endless adaptations, from office workers demanding mid-morning coffee to students craving post-class fuel. Its relatability lies in its specificity—it’s not about generic hunger, but the precise, almost ceremonial need for a second helping. This hyper-specificity is why it resonates: it acknowledges the absurdity of our snack-driven lives while normalizing it.
To leverage this template effectively, focus on timing and context. Pair it with scenarios where hunger strikes unexpectedly—like a 10 a.m. meeting or a post-gym slump. For maximum impact, use visuals of carb-heavy foods (think muffins, bagels, or pastries) to amplify the "second breakfast" vibe. Pro tip: Add a self-deprecating twist, like “What about second breakfast? I haven’t even finished my first coffee yet,” to balance humor with authenticity.
The cultural takeaway is clear: memes like these don’t just reflect trends—they shape them. By framing snacking as a legitimate, even noble pursuit, the "What About Second Breakfast" template has helped destigmatize mid-day eating. It’s a reminder that in a world of diets and meal schedules, sometimes the most revolutionary act is simply listening to your stomach. So next time you reach for that mid-morning snack, remember: you’re not just eating—you’re participating in a cultural movement.
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Frequently asked questions
The "What about second breakfast?" template is a humorous meme format inspired by a line from the character Gimli in *The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers*. It is used to jokingly question or emphasize the importance of additional meals or activities beyond the expected ones.
To use the template, simply insert the phrase "What about second breakfast?" into a conversation or scenario where someone is discussing meals, plans, or priorities. It’s often used to add humor or to highlight the desire for more of something, like food or leisure.
The quote originates from the 2002 film *The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers*, where Gimli, a dwarf, asks, "What about second breakfast?" during a discussion about meal schedules. The line has since become a popular reference in memes and pop culture.
