Street Use

More African Truck Toys


Paul Merrill, who is stationed in Nairobi, Kenya sent in another fine example of a homemade toy truck. This one uses sticks. He notes that he didn’t have time to inspect the wheels to see what they are made from.

I find these trucks to be more than just toys. They are models as well. Or perhaps miniatures. They represent that mirror world that toy trains, dolls, video games, and board games represent. A parallel word, but a smaller one that a child can control. I think too, they also represent aspirations. They hope someday to have a truck, drive a train, have a baby, or command an army. Having one now, like a bit of “cargo” may help the real thing appear later.

Toycar1

Toycar2

Posted on August 19, 2006 at 4:47 am | comments



Comments


© 2023