Some Twitter Users Had an Issue with Richard Branson’s Hurricane Irma Comment
Hurricane Irma is already being called one of the most dangerous Atlantic storms in history, and [...]
Snarky Response
The top reply to Branson's tweet came with a ton of snarky attitude.
Why cant everyone in the path of Irma just hunker down in the wine cellars under their house and stop moaning about it.
Let them drink wine
— Chicken Wing (@barry_plunge) September 6, 2017
This comment used sarcasm as a response to Branson's wine cellar strategy, asking Twitter, "Why can't everyone in the path of Irma just hunker down in the wine cellars under their houses and stop moaning about it?"
Obviously, this comment is attacking the idea that billionaires like Branson and his family can hide out in their wine cellars while the majority of people in the path of the hurricane are in serious danger.
The tweet wrapped up with a nod to Marie Antoinette, saying, "Let them drink wine." If you recall, the princess is famous for the phrase, "Let them eat cake," which was a message that she didn't care about the peasants who were beneath her.
prevnextControversy
That comment caused quite a stir among users that were following Branson's message. Right away, one account called out the sarcasm, saying that it was a "ridiculous comment."
Actually, I thought it was pretty funny. No better place to be than sitting in a safe space with a nice glass of red. :)
— thatchrisbloke (@thepopples) September 6, 2017
It wasn't long before others came to the defense of the joke. One account replied to the downer by saying that they thought the joke was actually pretty funny, joining in on the sarcasm.
Others defended the actions by pointing out the flaws in Branson's post. One simply said that the original tweet was "insensitive."
Another took things a step further, altering the Marie Antoinette line to be more accurate to the dangers of the hurricane.
prevnextYou mean let them drown
— FAKE NEWS SLAYER (@GaltTrump) September 6, 2017
To Branson's Defense
While some users chose to criticize the message that Branson tweeted, others came to his aid, defending the billionaire and wishing him safety during the storm.
Prayers up!
— D. Edward (@UrbanProdigyFdn) September 6, 2017
Some took to the social media platform to offer their thoughts and prayers in the dangerous time.
Others went as far as to offer advice to the Branson family. They noted that, while the cellar can be a safe place, it's also very easily flooded.
prevWatch out for flooding! Cellars can flood. Be safe! Thoughts and prayers to all on the islands.
— Michael Mihajlov (@MihajlovM) September 6, 2017