The 'I Want My Hat Back' meme stems from the 2011 children's picture book by Jon Klassen, known for its minimalist art and dark humor. The plot follows a bear politely asking forest animals if they have seen his missing red hat, eventually realizing that the rabbit he spoke to was wearing it all along. The meme gained traction online for its deadpan delivery and the subtle, ominous shift in the bear's expression when he realizes the deception. It is commonly used to call out obvious lies, gaslighting, or whenever someone is caught red-handed but continues to deny their involvement in a humorous or passive-aggressive way.