Thomas Lanese, who works at an apparel store in SoHo, uses work-specific phrases like “I’ll shoot this email to you by end of day,” creating a sense of living two separate lives.
Fans of “Severance” can relate to this duality, where characters lead distinct work and personal lives, known as their “innies” and “outies” respectively.
The show’s terms have now permeated beyond the screen, with references to innies and outies becoming common in describing work-life dynamics.
At work, people often adopt a different persona, as observed by Mr. Lanese, who created a viral TikTok video exploring this concept through the lens of “Severance.”
The desire to separate work and home life is a common theme, accentuated in the show where employees undergo “severance” to achieve a work-life balance by disconnecting from their personal struggles.
The practice of compartmentalizing oneself is not new, but “Severance” takes it to an extreme, offering a literal way to detach from uncomfortable emotions.
The show’s impact on language and culture is notable, with terms like innie and outie becoming part of everyday discourse.
The concept of innies and outies serves as a coping mechanism in various situations, allowing individuals to navigate discomfort by compartmentalizing their experiences.
The show’s impact goes beyond entertainment, influencing our language and ability to describe complex aspects of our identities.
The phrases “innie” and “outie” resonate because they offer a colloquial way to express the act of compartmentalizing oneself, which is increasingly relevant in today’s society.
The innie and outie dynamic appeals to many individuals seeking to disassociate from the chaos of the world, providing a means to disconnect from external pressures.
Brands are also embracing this cultural trend, incorporating innie and outie references in their social media content to resonate with audiences.