Let’s start with the basics: “Cant Have Shit in Detroit” is a quirky internet saying that caught fire in 2018, becoming a cultural touchstone for humor about misfortune and bad luck. The phrase started as a joke on social media and quickly spiraled into a meme phenomenon, resonating with people who appreciated its absurdity. At its core, the saying suggests that if something breaks or gets stolen, it’s just part of the chaotic unpredictability of life—especially in Detroit. The humor lies in exaggerating how nothing good ever lasts, and that’s what made it stick around.
Now, where did this all begin? The roots of the phrase trace back to a Facebook post in May 2018. Interestingly, the original post wasn’t even about Detroit—it was about Cincinnati. But somewhere along the way, the internet decided Detroit was the perfect city to embody the essence of the saying. Maybe it’s because Detroit’s gritty reputation fits the narrative of tough times and survival. Who knows? Anyway, once the phrase took off, it became a rallying cry for anyone who felt like they couldn’t catch a break.
Fast forward to today, and the phrase has grown beyond just memes. There’s even a “Support Group” on Reddit for people who “can’t have shit in Detroit.” This online community has over 12,000 subscribers, where folks share their own stories of mishaps, broken stuff, and stolen items. It’s almost like a modern-day campfire where people gather to laugh about the little things that go wrong in life. So, whether you’re from Detroit or not, the humor hits home for anyone who’s ever had something go sideways.
What Exactly Does “Cant Have Shit in Detroit” Mean?
Alright, let’s break it down. The phrase doesn’t mean that people in Detroit are inherently unlucky—it’s more of a playful exaggeration. Think about it: if something gets stolen or damaged, you could say, “Well, I guess I can’t have shit in Detroit.” It’s a way of shrugging off bad luck with a smile instead of letting it drag you down. In a way, it’s a testament to resilience, right? Instead of dwelling on the negatives, people turn it into a joke. That’s the beauty of it.
So, why does it resonate so much? Maybe it’s because we’ve all been there—something happens, and you just want to laugh about it instead of crying. For instance, if your car gets keyed or your bike gets stolen, you could say, “Guess I can’t have nice things in Detroit.” It’s not serious—it’s just a funny way to cope with life’s little hiccups. You know what I mean?
Why Did the Phrase Catch On So Quickly?
Well, for starters, memes thrive on relatability. When something feels real and universal, people latch onto it. “Cant Have Shit in Detroit” tapped into that shared experience of dealing with life’s curveballs. Plus, the phrase is short, punchy, and easy to remember. It’s the kind of thing that sticks in your head, and before you know it, you’re using it yourself.
Also, the humor is self-deprecating, which people love. Instead of complaining or blaming others, the phrase turns the joke on itself. That’s powerful stuff. Think about it: when something goes wrong, it’s easier to laugh at yourself than to get upset. And honestly, who doesn’t appreciate a good laugh, especially when things aren’t going your way?
Could the Phrase Have Worked Without Detroit?
That’s a good question. Detroit plays a big role in the meme’s appeal, but is it essential? Maybe not entirely. The phrase could have worked with any city known for its challenges. But Detroit has a certain charm—a reputation for grit and perseverance. It’s almost like the city became the perfect backdrop for the joke because of its history and character.
Anyway, the phrase stuck because it’s funny, and humor is universal. People everywhere can relate to the idea of bad luck, no matter where they live. So while Detroit adds a layer of authenticity, the real magic lies in the phrase itself. It’s clever, memorable, and just a little bit absurd. And that’s what makes it stick.
How Has “Cant Have Shit in Detroit” Evolved Over Time?
Over the years, the meme has taken on a life of its own. It’s no longer just about stolen bikes or broken phones. People use it for all kinds of situations—anything from losing your favorite hoodie to accidentally deleting an important file. The phrase has become a catch-all for those moments when life throws you a curveball.
And it’s not just limited to memes anymore. There’s merchandise, T-shirts, and even entire online communities built around the phrase. It’s kind of like a cultural phenomenon at this point. Honestly, it’s impressive how something so simple can grow into something so big. Anyway, the evolution of the phrase shows just how adaptable memes can be in the digital age.
Can You Use “Cant Have Shit in Detroit” in Serious Situations?
Well, that depends. The phrase is inherently playful, so using it in a serious context might come across as tone-deaf. For example, if someone’s house burns down, saying “Guess I can’t have shit in Detroit” probably isn’t the best approach. But in less intense situations, it can be a great way to lighten the mood. Like, if you spill coffee on your laptop, you could say, “Guess I can’t have nice things in Detroit.” It’s all about context, really.
So, can you use it in serious situations? Sure, but only if it feels appropriate. The key is to gauge the situation and make sure everyone involved is on the same page. You know what I mean? Sometimes humor can be a great coping mechanism, but other times, it’s better to save the jokes for later.
Where Did the Original Post Come From?
As I mentioned earlier, the phrase didn’t start in Detroit. It actually began as a Facebook post about Cincinnati. The original post was about someone losing or damaging something, and the phrase “Can’t have shit in Cincinnati” was born. But somewhere along the way, the internet decided Detroit was a better fit for the joke. Maybe it’s because Detroit’s reputation for resilience aligns perfectly with the humor of the phrase.
Anyway, the original post spread like wildfire, and before long, the phrase had taken on a life of its own. It’s a classic example of how memes evolve and adapt over time. Sometimes the best jokes come from unexpected places, and that’s exactly what happened here. So, even though the phrase started in Cincinnati, it’s now synonymous with Detroit. Go figure.
Who Runs the “Support Group” on Reddit?
Good question. The “Support Group for People Who Can’t Have Shit in Detroit” is a subreddit with over 12,000 members. It’s a place where people share their own stories of mishaps and bad luck, all while keeping things light and humorous. The group is run by a team of moderators who make sure everything stays fun and positive.
What’s cool about the subreddit is that it’s not just about Detroit—it’s about life in general. People from all over the world contribute their own stories, and the community has grown into something much bigger than the original meme. It’s a great example of how the internet can bring people together over shared experiences. Anyway, if you haven’t checked it out, you totally should.
How Can You Use the Phrase in Everyday Life?
Using the phrase in everyday life is pretty straightforward. Anytime something goes wrong, you can say, “Guess I can’t have shit in Detroit.” It’s a quick, easy way to turn a negative into a positive. For instance, if you drop your phone and crack the screen, you could say, “Well, I guess I can’t have nice things in Detroit.” It’s a lighthearted way to acknowledge the situation without getting too upset.
Of course, you don’t have to live in Detroit to use the phrase. It works anywhere, anytime. The key is to use it in situations where humor can help diffuse tension. You know, those moments when you just need a laugh to get through the day. Anyway, it’s a versatile phrase that can fit into just about any conversation.
Is the Phrase Still Relevant Today?
Absolutely. The phrase continues to be relevant because it speaks to a universal truth: life is unpredictable, and sometimes things just don’t go your way. The humor of the phrase lies in its ability to make light of those moments, and that’s something people will always appreciate. Whether you’re dealing with a minor inconvenience or a major setback, the phrase offers a way to laugh about it instead of letting it bring you down.
So, is it still relevant? Definitely. As long as people experience bad luck, the phrase will continue to resonate. It’s a timeless joke that reminds us to keep things in perspective and find humor in the chaos. And honestly, who couldn’t use a little more laughter in their life?
What’s the Future of the “Cant Have Shit in Detroit” Meme?
Who knows? Memes are unpredictable, and their lifespan can vary wildly. Some fade away after a few months, while others stick around for years. “Cant Have Shit in Detroit” has already proven its staying power, so there’s a good chance it’ll continue to thrive. Maybe it’ll evolve into something new, or maybe it’ll remain exactly as it is. Either way, it’s clear that the phrase has become a beloved part of meme culture.
So, what’s the future? Honestly, it’s hard to say. But as long as people keep finding humor in life’s little mishaps, the phrase will likely stick around. And that’s a good thing. After all, laughter is one of the best ways to deal with life’s challenges, and this meme captures that perfectly.
Summary of the Article
The phrase “Cant Have Shit in Detroit” started as a Facebook post in 2018 and quickly became a viral meme. Originally about Cincinnati, the phrase found its home in Detroit due to the city’s reputation for resilience and grit. Over time, it evolved into a cultural phenomenon, with a thriving online community and merchandise to match. The humor lies in its ability to make light of life’s challenges, turning bad luck into a joke. Whether you’re dealing with a stolen bike or a cracked phone screen, the phrase offers a lighthearted way to cope. And while its origins may be humble, its impact continues to grow, proving that sometimes the simplest jokes are the most powerful.
Table of Contents
- What Exactly Does “Cant Have Shit in Detroit” Mean?
- Why Did the Phrase Catch On So Quickly?
- Could the Phrase Have Worked Without Detroit?
- How Has “Cant Have Shit in Detroit” Evolved Over Time?
- Can You Use “Cant Have Shit in Detroit” in Serious Situations?
- Where Did the Original Post Come From?
- Who Runs the “Support Group” on Reddit?
- How Can You Use the Phrase in Everyday Life?


