Our Blessed Homeland

This popular cartoon was first drawn in 2015, by British cartoonist Tom Gauld.

Tom Gauld is a science cartoonist, who normally pokes fun at the nerdy type of people who spend time thinking about Dark Energy and Schrödinger cat.

On his forays outside the world of science, Tom submitted the Our Blessed Homeland cartoon to The Guardian after reading an endless social media argument over whom the "original" people of the British Islands were. This was sparked by a review in The Guardian Review of Kazuo Ishiguro's The Buried Giant.

The cartoon then disappeared for 5 years.

In 2020, it began popping up again on Tumblr and other social media sites, newly relabeled.

Tumblr user flakmaniak posted this one:

Tumblr user sirnekomeowinton created this version:

The beauty of this meme lies in its versatility.

Last year, having read dozens of articles on the 'Rules of Writing', I discovered most Amazon best-selling authors don't follow these rules. Reassuring for me and my dreams of becoming a writer, as I tend to use -ly adverbs profusely.

Here's my new version of the meme:

Thanks for reading, and drop your suggestions for warring tribes that could be a good target of this meme into the comment section!

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Background info on Tom Gauld generated by ChatGPT:

Tom Gauld is a renowned British cartoonist and illustrator, celebrated for his unique blend of humor and literary references. Born in 1976 in Aberdeen, Scotland, Gauld studied at the University of Dundee, where he earned a degree in Fine Art. His artistic journey began in the world of comics, and he quickly gained recognition for his distinctive style and witty commentary.

Gauld's career took off in the late 1990s when he started contributing to various publications, including The Guardian, The New Yorker, and The Believer. His work often features clever visual puns and a minimalist aesthetic, characterized by simple lines and a muted color palette. Gauld has a knack for distilling complex ideas into accessible and humorous illustrations, making his cartoons resonate with a wide audience.

One of his most notable works is the graphic novel Goliath (2012), which reimagines the biblical story of David and Goliath from the perspective of the giant. This innovative approach showcases Gauld's ability to blend narrative depth with humor. His other graphic novels, such as You're All Just Jealous of My Jetpack (2013) and Department of Mind-Blowing Theories (2018), further establish his reputation as a master of the medium.

Gauld's cartoons often explore themes of literature, science, and the absurdities of everyday life. His series "Books vs. Movies" humorously contrasts the two mediums, highlighting the often ridiculous adaptations of beloved literary works. Another popular series features anthropomorphized animals engaging in mundane human activities, offering a humorous take on the human condition.

In addition to his comic work, Gauld has illustrated several books, including The New York Times bestsellers and works by renowned authors. His illustrations are not just decorative; they enhance the narratives, providing a visual layer that complements the text.

Gauld has received numerous accolades for his work, including the prestigious Eisner Award. His ability to engage readers through humor and thought-provoking content has solidified his place in the world of contemporary cartooning.

In summary, Tom Gauld's contributions to the world of cartoons and graphic novels are marked by his sharp wit and artistic skill. His ability to tackle complex themes with humor makes his work both enjoyable and intellectually stimulating, ensuring that his cartoons continue to captivate audiences around the globe.

One of Tom Gauld's most popular books is "You're All Just Jealous of My Jetpack," published in 2013. This collection of cartoons showcases Gauld's signature style, blending humor with clever commentary on a variety of topics, including literature, pop culture, and the absurdities of modern life.

The book features a range of illustrations that playfully critique the conventions of storytelling and the quirks of human behavior. Each cartoon is a standalone piece, often highlighting the contrast between highbrow literary themes and everyday situations. Gauld's use of simple lines and muted colors enhances the humor, allowing the punchlines to shine through.

"You're All Just Jealous of My Jetpack" has been praised for its wit and originality, appealing to both casual readers and serious literature enthusiasts. The book reflects Gauld's ability to engage with complex ideas while remaining accessible and entertaining, making it a standout work in his oeuvre. The title itself has become a cultural reference, encapsulating the playful yet insightful nature of Gauld's work.