Life imitating art imitating life
From The Extended Group
In socials situations, the phenomenon of life imitating art imitating life refers to any instance in which a group member intentionally plays on stereotypes or impersonations of their behavior. The most famous example of this being Jeremy's Transylvanian-American.
Origin
During the height of Jeremy impressions, it was noted by most group members that Jeremy's actual behavior was evolving to fit not just type assumptions about his character, but catchphrases and a style of vernacular only used in such impersonations. In an unwitting parallel to real events, Arnold Schwarzenegger had just called members of the California House of Representatives "girly men," a phrase invented in SNL and Conan depictions of the governor. The similarities in Jeremy's behavior were duly noted, prompting Brett to explain to Jeremy one day that he, like Arnold, had become "life imitating art imitating life."
Usage
With the decline of Jeremy's self-caricature's in recent months, usage of this aphorism has taken on a broader context. It can refer to any occasion in which someone uses theatrical renditions of themselves in everyday conversation.
This may include:
- Over-playing Brett's love of cheese
- Jamie acting adorable/overly heterosexual
- Lukas correcting someone factually
- Rama being Rama
In a certain light, it could be argued that all members of the group are subject to this concept. Particularly in large hangouts, people's more caricatured aspects of their personalities tend to dominate, for the amusement of all.
