Zombies.
Say this and people start throwing around notions like zombies are 'fun' or that they are a fundamental expression of American xenophobia, the downfall of the consumer culture, or even a collective form of germaphobia.
I feel the Zombie and the genre have another core meaning: futility
Sure, you can outrun them and shoot them. but they dont have to rest, and you will run out of bullets before zombies. no matter how well protected and fortified your house, skyscraper, underground fortress, or rolling deathbunker is something will fail, they will get in, and everyone except one of two people are going to die horrible screaming deaths. While some might consider it hope, or optimism, its refusal of the inevitable. No matter how well armed, prepared, trained, etc, the zombies are going to get you. The only thing that might keep you alive is dumb luck, or living souls between you and the dead.
Thank you and have a nice day.
When the undead come, they will pull you down by the throat, kicking and screaming. When you stand up again it will be as one of them. Then, it will be your turn to take down the next victim. Tomorrow will rise up and destroy today.