To this day, my aunt won't go to Starbucks because she was across the street when the towers fell and ended up covered in debris.

@youngam904

205.0K followers · usually 3.6K views a post

Views

2.5M

Likes

238.9K

Comments

3.8K

Shares

9.0K

SoundTikTok sound · original sound - carmelasancineto77

Why it worked

The story is emotionally resonant and taps into a shared historical event, making it relatable and memorable for a wide audience. The specific detail of being charged for water in a crisis highlights a perceived lack of empathy, creating a strong narrative hook.

Summary

The creator shares a story about their aunt's negative experience at Starbucks following the 9/11 attacks. Despite being covered in debris and needing to wash, the aunt was still charged for bottled water, leading to her aversion to the coffee chain.

Structure

1Aunt's proximity to 9/11 attacks
2Seeking water at Starbucks
3Starbucks charging for water
4Aunt's lasting aversion to Starbucks

Product placement

Starbucks: (a) it ACTS - the interface is operated, it generates or edits something, a visible result comes from it, or someone says what it does for them. Removing it would change what happens in the video.

On-screen text

To this day, my aunt won't go to Starbucks because she was across the street when the towers fell and ended up covered in debris. When she went to the nearest Starbucks to ask for a cup of water, they still insisted on charging for bottled water, even though she had a face and mouth full of debris she wanted to wash away.