The Dead Can Man meme features a sculpture or figure constructed entirely from aluminum soda or beer cans, typically shown slumped over or lying flat in a state of defeat. It rose to internet fame as a visual representation of extreme exhaustion, burnout, or the aftermath of a long week. Often associated with cursed images or surreal humor, users leverage the metallic aesthetic to joke about caffeine dependency or the feeling of being physically and mentally drained. Its versatility allows creators to project various human emotions—ranging from existential dread to mid-afternoon slumps—onto a literal pile of recycled metal, making it a staple for relatability in digital spaces.