Introduction

The Eren Crying meme, also known as Eren's Confession, features a poignant moment from the Attack on Titan manga where protagonist Eren Yeager expresses deep emotional turmoil.

Background

In chapter 139 of Attack on Titan, Eren Yeager breaks down in tears contemplating the possibility of Mikasa Ackerman moving on after his death. This moment, perceived as out of character by some fans, sparked a wave of memes and references within the fandom, especially following the release of the final episode of the anime adaptation in November 2023.

How It Began

The meme originated on April 8, 2021, with the publication of chapter 139, "Toward the Tree on That Hill." During a conversation, Armin Arlert confronts Eren about his feelings regarding Mikasa's potential new relationship after his demise. Initially evasive, Eren breaks down, revealing a desire for her to remain emotionally attached to him, while also wishing for her happiness. This emotional revelation was quickly transformed into various memes, as fans reacted to the stark contrast with Eren's established character.

Internet Reaction

The Eren Crying meme gained traction shortly after its release, particularly within the Attack on Titan community. A notable post on April 9, 2021, featured an 'I Don't Like Sand' meme that garnered over 7,000 upvotes on Reddit. As the anime adaptation approached its finale in November 2023, discussions reignited, leading to a resurgence of memes referencing the scene. A tweet on November 4, 2023, featuring a Tommy Shelby meme connected to Eren's emotions received significant engagement, illustrating the meme's lasting impact and relevance.