MEME REFERENCE

Presidential Alert

Use Presidential Alert when a government official is unexpectedly interrupted by a trivial matter.

What it expresses

A high-level authority figure's sudden disruption by mundane concerns creates a contrast between power and triviality.

Example

For example, a president being interrupted by a neighbor's dog barking.

When not to use it

Avoid Presidential Alert when the situation lacks both president and interruption; the image would suggest the wrong relationship.

• president
• interruption
• trivial
• power