Charlotte, North Carolina

 

Gumby is a classic animated character who first appeared in the 1950’s and 60’s. A clay character that inexplicably became popular television character. With his clay horse Pokey, Gumby’s program also included his dog Nopey who only could say "No." There was also the yellow dragon Prickle and Goo a flying blue blob mermaid. The show was crated by Art Clokey and had a resurgence of fame when Eddie Murphy played a grown up Gumby on Saturday Night Live.

 

It asks the question, what is it about animated characters that find an audience? And among all the talking dogs, cats and jungle animals, how in the world did a talking, two-dimensional clay figure become popular in the first place? With this we offer an analysis called: The Gumby Dynamic. We begin with a basic question: how do you see Gumby? Is he taffy? Is he putty? Is he plastic?
(If you thought metal or wood, you might want to consider being tested for perceptual difficulties)

 

Clearly Gumby is a boy whose unique shape and substance are central to his identity. He is quite flat in shape, suggesting a two dimensionality. Lack of depth is one of his most significant features. And being a putty or taffy like substance, it means he is simultaneously pliable and, disturbingly, squashable. His makeup indicates a lack of inner substance. In essence, others can stretch and reshape Gumby. He frequently relies on a farm animal, his horse, Pokey, for wisdom and advice. He is thus not a well educated or intellectually mature individual. But although he is something of a simpleton, he is nonetheless a kind, civil, and well disciplined adolescent.

 

Now let’s talk about you.

Think about the description above. Do any of these characteristics describe you? Are you a two-dimensional dullard who can be shaped or crushed by outside forces, all the while feeling a childlike inability to defend yourself? If so, you have Gumby Syndrome. And this is great news, because you have now defined your condition that is the first step in changing your life. See how quickly the science of Teletherapy begins the healing process?

Have a great day!