Absurdism Explained: How to Find Purpose When Nothing Makes Sense

“In the midst of winter, I found there was, within me, an invincible summer. And that makes me happy. For it says that no matter how hard the world pushes against me, within me, there’s something stronger something better, pushing right back.”

It’s late at night, your phone’s glow the only light, and that familiar ache creeps in: Why bother? The world spins on without a script, deadlines pile up, and the universe stays stubbornly quiet. If you’re feeling lost in the chaos maybe scrolling through existential memes or questioning every choice this is for you. Absurdism isn’t here to drag you down; it’s a quiet rebellion, a way to stare into the silence and build something real from it.

The Core of Absurdism: Camus and the Silent Universe

At its heart, absurdism recognizes the clash between our deep human need for meaning and the universe’s indifferent silence. Philosopher Albert Camus nailed this in his 1942 essay “The Myth of Sisyphus”, arguing that life is inherently absurd because we crave clarity in a world that offers none. We’re meaning-making machines, wired to seek purpose, but the cosmos doesn’t reply no divine plan, no cosmic DMs.

Camus didn’t stop at the despair, though. He said: Don’t escape through denial, religion, or selfdestruction. Instead, rebel by living consciously embrace the absurdity and keep going anyway. It’s like acknowledging the void, then flipping it off by choosing to create your own light. This philosophy emerged post-World War II, reflecting Camus’ experiences with chaos and loss, but it resonates today amid global uncertainties.

Gen Z and the Absurd: Memes, Mental Health, and Quiet Defiance

If Camus were alive in 2025, he’d probably vibe with Gen Z’s take on absurdity. Born into economic instability, climate anxiety, and social media overload, this generation faces the absurd head-on, often through raw, relatable outlets. Mental health battles are a big part: Rates of anxiety and depression have spiked, with many young people reporting feelings of purposelessness tied to an unpredictable world. It’s not just stats it’s the late-night overthinking, the “what’s the point” spirals that feel all too real.

Yet, here’s the sharp twist: Gen Z rebels creatively. Memes turn existential dread into shareable humor, like viral posts mocking productivity culture or the irony of self-care in a crumbling society. Art becomes a lifeline think abstract digital creations or poetry zines that capture the chaos, transforming personal voids into communal expression. Overthinking? It’s reframed as introspection, fueling podcasts and TikToks that dissect life’s nonsense.

And in the face of it all, purpose gets DIY-ed. From small acts like journaling for mental clarity to activism against systemic absurdities, Gen Z crafts meaning amid the mess. It’s not defeat; it’s fuel for freedom unshackling from expectations to live authentically.

Turning Absurdity into Fuel: Freedom, Creativity, and Spiritual Rebellion

Absurdism reframes the struggle as empowerment. Without a predefined purpose, you’re free scary, sure, but it opens doors to genuine creativity . Camus called this “revolt,” a conscious choice to affirm life despite its lack of sense. For today’s quietly rebellious souls, it’s spiritual rebellion: Finding transcendence in the everyday, like a meaningful conversation or a protest march, defying the silence with human connection.

This isn’t fluffy optimism; it’s grounded in the emotional weight of existence. Studies on existential psychology show that confronting absurdity can lead to greater resilience and personal growth, turning potential despair into creative energy. Gen Z embodies this, using art and memes not as escapes, but as tools to build purpose where none is given.

Practical Ways to Rebel and Find Purpose

Feeling the pull of the absurd? Lean in reflectively:

• Acknowledge It: Name the senselessness journal it, talk it out. Awareness is the first act of rebellion .
• Embrace the Emotional Ride: Let yourself feel lost, then channel it into something a doodle, a rant, a walk.
• Craft Your Meaning: Start small. Purpose isn’t a grand quest; it’s in routines, relationships, and creative sparks.
• Connect with Others: Share the absurdity through memes or deep convos. We’re all in this silent universe together.
• Live Defiantly: Like Sisyphus pushing his boulder, find joy in the push itself. Camus imagined him happy; you can too.

In a world that often feels like it’s glitching, absurdism whispers: The silence isn’t the end it’s your canvas. You’re a meaning-maker, rebeling with every breath, meme, and moment of quiet defiance. When nothing makes sense, that’s your cue to create what does .

— Written by Shivam Shukla.