AboutWhat does the meme depict?
Slender Man, often abbreviated as Slenderman, is depicted as a mythical, eerie entity characterized by his unusual height, slim figure, wearing a dark suit, and possessing a featureless face. He can manipulate his limbs, extending his arms and projecting tentacle-like appendages from his back. The creature, associated with various supernatural abilities, reportedly causes memory loss, insomnia, paranoia, 'slendersickness' (a term for coughing fits), media distortion, and can teleport. Originating from online folklore, Slender Man has become a significant figure in digital and pop culture, leading to the creation of numerous artworks, stories, and a series styled after the Blair Witch Project film. He is also referred to by various names such as The Operator, Der Großmann, Mr. Slim, and others, each adding to his mystique and backstory.
OriginWho did it first?
Slender Man was born from a 'paranormal pictures' Photoshop contest initiated on the Something Awful (SA) Forums on June 8th, 2009. Participants were tasked with transforming ordinary photos into eerie, supernatural images to be passed off as genuine on paranormal forums. The character emerged when SA user Victor Surge, real name Eric Knudsen, contributed two manipulated black and white images featuring unnamed children, introducing 'Slender Man' as a mysterious figure linked to the disappearance of children on June 10th. Victor Surge expanded this myth with additional photos and fictional accounts the following days. The thread proliferated other users' contributions and stories, solidifying Slender Man's place in internet lore. The character perhaps drew inspiration from 'Cabadath' or the 'Tall Man' in Ben 'Yahtzee' Croshaw's 2003 adventure game series 'Chzo Mythos'. The slender, black-coated, faceless character in these games shares distinct similarities with Slender Man. Additionally, German folklore and various internet series such as TribeTwelve have adapted and expanded the Slender Man legend.[1]
Origin: 2009