The Hidden Hand Behind it All

The Allegory of an Old Toy Taking on a New Meaning

People of a similar age to myself will remember this simple finger puppet toy that was very popular when I was a kid. Street traders on Moore Street in Dublin were our usual ‘go-to’ source to (literally) get our hands on them. These basic latex face finger puppets had a great charm, and provided hours of entertainment for children during a more imaginative period in Western history.

Coming across one again recently, I was struck by how they provide a perfect allegory for the politicians, mass media and all the other establishment types during the present era. How all of these people seem to be moved by a hidden hand, and one which speaks in the same voice.

The irony of these also being ‘Made in China’ should not be lost on anyone either. As what Western politicians come out with today, has much in common with the Chinese Cultural Revolution from the same period when these toys were manufactured.

Life is far more opulent with emerging meanings and symbols than we often notice. Just give it enough time.