Zippy Psyche

[“Fairy Crossing.” Zippy, September 28, 2019.]

That’s Herman Sherman, “Dingburg’s ‘Skeptic-in-Chief,’” speaking with — who? A fairy, I guess, or a sprite — Herman warns her that it’s a “no-sprite zone.” Or should that be Sprite?

The fairy or sprite in today’s Zippy bears an unmistakable resemblance to Psyche, symbol of White Rock Beverages. Here’s an NPR story about Psyche and her soda company. (Soda: which is why I think there’s a pun in “no-sprite zone.”) And here’s a company page about Psyche.

I remember White Rock from my Brooklyn kidhood. I believe that Psyche was then known as “the White Rock maiden,” but I can’t find any evidence for my claim.

Here’s Psyche as herself:


[Life, December 29, 1947. Click for a larger view, and notice Psyche’s hands in the upper-right image.]

It’s worth taking the time to read the advertisement: “The drinks were tops last night — and I feel on top of the world this morning.” In other words, no hangover. Something to do with White Rock’s “alkaline effect.” Other advertisements of the period promise that White Rock keeps you “on the alkaline side.” Whatever.

Related reading
All OCA Zippy posts (Pinboard)