This phrase signifies a moment of shared emotional vulnerability, typically in response to a news story published by The New York Times. It’s a rhetorical question used to acknowledge the presence of strong emotions, often sadness or empathy, evoked by the article’s content. For example, a story about acts of kindness during a natural disaster might prompt readers to comment “who’s cutting onions?” as a way of expressing their heartfelt reaction.
The expression serves as a form of communal catharsis, allowing readers to acknowledge and process their emotional response collectively. It fosters a sense of shared humanity and empathy among readers, transforming potentially isolating emotional experiences into a shared moment of connection. This online expression reflects the increasing role of social media in processing collective grief and shared emotional responses to current events. Its usage emphasizes the emotional impact of journalism and the power of shared experiences in the digital age.
