The Forehead Vein Guy Meme Template

This viral photo features student Michael McGee in a high school classroom in 2014. McGee intentionally held his breath and tensed his muscles to make the veins in his forehead and neck bulge for a funny picture. In meme culture, it is the definitive visual for extreme physical or mental strain caused by holding something back—whether it’s a secret, a joke, an unpopular opinion, or a literal bodily function.

• Michael McGee with a red face and prominent, bulging forehead veins. He represents The Person Under Pressure.
• A mundane classroom with a girl sitting next to him, which highlights the Absurdity of the Struggle in a normal environment.
• Wide, glazed eyes and a tight mouth, suggesting that one more second of silence will lead to total collapse.