Introduction

The 'Let People Enjoy Things' meme is a reaction image series derived from a webcomic by Adam Ellis, often used to counteract negative criticism of cultural phenomena.

Background

The phrase 'Let People Enjoy Things' serves as a defense against negativity, encouraging individuals to embrace their preferences without judgment. This sentiment resonates particularly within discussions of popular culture, where differing opinions can spark intense debate.

How It Began

On February 3rd, 2016, Adam Ellis shared the webcomic 'shhh' on Facebook. The comic features a dialogue where one character annoys another with criticisms about sports, leading to the frustrated response: 'Let people enjoy things.' The post gained significant traction, amassing over 8,200 reactions, 440 comments, and 100 shares.

Meme Evolution

After the comic's release, the final two panels quickly became popular as a reaction image, often used to rebut criticisms. For instance, on July 13th, 2016, Twitter user @evanjaquez shared the images in response to a string of negative remarks, gathering over 840 retweets and 870 likes. Over the years, the image has transformed into a staple reaction for various contexts, from criticisms to humorous punchlines.

Cultural Commentary

On May 2nd, 2019, Medium writer Esther Rosenfield discussed the broader implications of the 'Let People Enjoy Things' sentiment, arguing that critical perspectives do not diminish enjoyment but rather expose insecurities. She emphasizes the cultural dynamics at play, particularly regarding large corporations like Disney, which often benefit from a culture of uncritical fandom.

Further Developments

On October 28th, 2019, Adam Ellis humorously addressed the meme's popularity by tweeting a comic where he depicts himself shooting the two-panel meme, claiming he would 'kill as many comics as he has to.' This post garnered significant engagement, receiving over 8,500 retweets and 44,100 likes within a day.