When You Call Me That Smile

An illustration of a boy with a manic expression holding an axe. Under the illustration is orange text with a black outline and the background is blue on top and orange on the bottom. 

"When you call me that, smile" is a catch phrase from the novel The Virginian: A Horseman of the Plains written by Owen Wister. The story takes place in the Old West, and the main character is call "The Virginian." His name is never revealed. The Virginian is a ranch hand at Sunk Creek Ranch, located in the state of Wyoming. The line comes from a scene when the Virginian is gambling with the antagonist, Trampas. It was the Virginian's turn to bet but he was silent. Trampas said, "Your bet, you son of a b----." The Virginian pulls out his pistol and says very calmly and gently, "When you call me that, smile."

This is a humorous take on the phrase showing that the wearer may take enjoyment from the retaliation of their provocative wearable.