Ask mother to get Shreddies ‘Skin Diver’ packets (He really dives!)

From Eagle, 1960.

“Ask mother to get Shreddies ‘Skin Diver’ packets” is an almost Dadaist instruction, or like something a schizophrenic person’s head voice might say, even in the context of the early “pester power” advertisement above. Try saying “Ask mother to get Shreddies ‘Skin Diver’ packets” a hundred times.

“Mother, get Skin Diver packets.”

I’m sorry boy, but you do manage to look ludicrous when you give me orders.

“Please, mother.”

No! I will not hide in the fruit cellar! You think I’m fruity, huh? I’m staying right here. This is my room and no one will drag me out of it, least of all my big, bold son!

“I’ll carry you, mother.”

Norman! What do you think you’re doing? Don’t you touch me, don’t! Norman! Put me down, put me down, I can walk on my own…

1. Psycho was also released in 1960.
2. I love the late Fifties/early Sixties-ness of the jagged, asymmetrical text panels.  Almost Saul Bass, too, and in the service of flogging breakfast cereal.
3. It’s IMPORTANT that you use only a bottle that has a screw stopper and not a cork. Don’t say you weren’t warned. Mother HATES disobedient boys.