As a rather introverted individual with distinct preferences, I recognize my traits. What I mean is, it’s likely advisable not to involve me in conversations concerning cuisine, America’s premier bar ensemble, or, indeed, the Roman Empire. I will speak at length.

However, my wife — bless her soul — has frequently engaged attentively with intriguing insights about The Hold Steady. Because when you care for someone, you find their peculiarities and passions, well, compelling. TikTok’s current craze features strong women safeguarding the gentle, soft-spoken men in their lives as they present their interests. Typically, the women partaking in this trend offer playful, faux-menacing ultimatums before the man showcases their hobby, encouraging onlookers to be supportive.

As far as I can observe, the trend originated with @yearningyardies on TikTok. A woman informs viewers that they should compliment her boyfriend’s plants. Subsequently, the boyfriend appears and delicately displays his plants.

That TikTok seems to have motivated other couples to exhibit everything from a painted turtle to golf clubs, and even more plants. Frequently, the women in the background mimic watching you or signal that you should be enthusiastic. The comments often pretend to express fear at the woman’s threats while simultaneously admiring the work of the introverted man. It’s good, wholesome entertainment.

These entries represent a gentler version of the age-old trend where (usually) women would share TikToks illustrating how they believed their partners wouldn’t be unfaithful. Often, these TikToks showcased men participating in stereotypically nerdy or unfashionable pastimes. The implication being, this guy is too geeky (or, in the rarer, harsher takes on the trend, too much of a loser) to stray.