What is dead dove?

"Dead Dove: Do Not Eat" is a phrase commonly used in fandoms, originating from a specific scene in the television show "Arrested Development." In the show, one of the characters, Michael Bluth, finds a bag in a refrigerator labeled "Dead Dove: Do Not Eat." He opens it, expecting it to contain something strange, and upon seeing the contents, remarks, "I don't know what I expected."

In fan communities, particularly in fan fiction, the phrase "Dead Dove: Do Not Eat" is used to warn readers about content that might be explicit, uncomfortable, or potentially disturbing. It serves as a meta-warning, indicating that the material inside is exactly what it appears to be, and readers should not be surprised by potentially upsetting content. This term highlights the importance of paying attention to warnings and labels provided by authors and creators.