The 'Hard Times Create Strong Men' meme is based on a quote from G. Michael Hopf’s post-apocalyptic novel, 'Those Who Remain.' The meme typically uses a four-panel grid to illustrate a perceived cyclical nature of societal collapse and prosperity, moving from struggle to strength, then comfort, and eventually back to decadence and decline. While it began as a serious philosophical observation shared in history and self-improvement communities, it has since evolved into a versatile template for irony. Modern variations often use the format to joke about trivial lifestyle changes, corporate cycles, or niche internet drama, proving that every 'good time' eventually leads to a meme-able 'hard time.'