Meaning: The quote you've provided is from Trey Parker, one of the co-creators of the animated television series "South Park." The quote refers to a decision made regarding the cover art for a release related to the show. In the context of "South Park," Mr. Hankey is a recurring character known as the Christmas Poo, who is depicted as a talking piece of feces wearing a Santa Claus hat. The decision to feature a real-life photo of a piece of excrement dressed as Mr. Hankey on the cover, rather than an image directly related to the show, seems to have generated some confusion among the audience.

The use of unconventional and controversial imagery is a hallmark of "South Park." The show has gained notoriety for its irreverent and often politically incorrect humor, and it frequently pushes boundaries with its content. The decision to use a real-life photo of feces dressed as Mr. Hankey on the cover can be seen as consistent with the show's tendency to challenge traditional norms and provoke reactions.

It's worth noting that the use of such imagery can be polarizing. While some fans of "South Park" may appreciate the subversive and boundary-pushing nature of the cover art, others may have found it off-putting or confusing. This reaction aligns with the show's history of eliciting strong responses from its audience.

In the quote, Trey Parker's reference to "a lot of people didn't even know what it was" suggests that the cover art may have been too obscure or unconventional for some viewers to immediately recognize its connection to "South Park" and the character of Mr. Hankey. This highlights the potential challenge of effectively conveying the intended message or reference through unconventional or abstract imagery, especially when it deviates significantly from established visual representations associated with a particular media property.

The decision to use unconventional cover art can also be seen as a deliberate attempt to defy expectations and stand out in a crowded media landscape. By eschewing traditional promotional imagery in favor of something unexpected and attention-grabbing, the creators may have sought to generate curiosity and intrigue among potential viewers or consumers. However, as Parker's comment suggests, this approach may not have resonated with everyone, and it likely sparked a range of reactions from the audience.

Overall, the quote sheds light on the creative decision-making process behind the promotion and representation of "South Park" and offers insight into the show's willingness to challenge conventional norms and expectations. It also serves as a reminder of the potential complexities and risks associated with using unconventional or controversial imagery in media promotion, as it can elicit diverse and sometimes unexpected reactions from the audience.