Understanding POV Memes
POV stands for “Point of View.” POV memes are a specific type of meme that presents a scenario from a particular perspective, often using text overlays or captions to set the scene. They aim to create a sense of relatability and humor by putting the viewer in the shoes of someone experiencing a specific situation.
Right POV Memes
A well-executed POV meme effectively conveys a relatable scenario and elicits a strong emotional response from the viewer. It often uses humor, irony, or relatable situations to connect with the audience.
Example:
Image: A person looking shocked and horrified.
Text: POV: You’re about to eat the last slice of pizza and realize you forgot to ask if anyone else wanted some.
Wrong POV Memes
A poorly executed POV meme might lack clarity, be overly complex, or fail to evoke the intended emotion. It might also rely on outdated trends or be insensitive to certain groups.
Example:
Image: A person looking confused.
Text: POV: Trying to understand advanced calculus.
This meme might not resonate with everyone, as not everyone has taken advanced calculus or finds it particularly challenging.
Normal Memes vs. POV Memes
Normal memes typically use an image or video with text overlay to convey humor or satire. They often rely on existing cultural references, jokes, or formats.
Example:
Image: The “Distracted Boyfriend” meme template.
Text: Girlfriend: “We need to talk about our future.” Boyfriend: Looking at another woman
This meme uses a well-known template to convey a relatable scenario, but it doesn’t explicitly use the “POV” format.
POV memes, on the other hand, explicitly state the perspective from which the scenario is being viewed. They often use phrases like “POV: You’re…” or “POV: You’re the only one who…” to set the context.
Example:
Image: A person looking exhausted.
Text: POV: You’re the designated driver for your friends on a night out.
This meme clearly establishes the viewer’s perspective as the designated driver, making the scenario more relatable and impactful.
In essence, POV memes add a layer of immersion and relatability to the meme format by placing the viewer directly within the scenario, enhancing the humor and emotional impact.
