25 Death Note Memes That Will Transport Otaku Millenial Emos Directly to Hot Topic in 2009

Ely Bulnes • Writer and Editor

Aug 28, 2024 3:00 PM EDT

Death Note came out in 2006, right at the peak of popularity of the emo and scene kid subculture that had every rebelling teenager in a choke hold in the 2000s. Misa Amane's alternative outfits, rife with black lace, studded boots, black and white striped stockings and hand warmers, and gothic Cross necklaces, were the pinnacle of fashion to counter culture teenagers who frequented Hot Topic in the 2000s. L Lawliet, with spiked, swooping black hair and under-eye circles that resembled smudged eyeliner, was an emo icon - even though he was a pretty serious and intelligent detective. The dissonance between his unsociable appearance and his affinity for pastel-colored sweets made for fan-art that hit the nail on the head for the dark-yet-childish aesthetic of the scene kid subculture. Many a MySpace background or profile pic featured an emotionless L enjoying some kawaii strawberry cake.

If Death Note was part of your teen years and you still remember the 'Demotivational Poster' meme format, then enjoy these nostalgic memes of the renowned anime that will take you right back to 2009.