This video about how ink cartridges are a scam might be related: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AHX6tHdQGiQ

related comic: https://theoatmeal.com/comics/printers

I am very surprised you have not heard this before, especially if you've used a printer in your lifetime. Yes, it's a "meme" (not sure whether to apply that word if it's not a badly drawn or photo-edited image, perhaps recurring theme is a better word?). You're one of today's lucky ten thousand!