“When I’m Itchy, I Scratch”
Among the many memorable songs that were
sing-in-the-backseat-of-the-car staples of my childhood is the growly,
slow, completely frank number from Sesame Street, “When I’m Itchy, I Scratch.”
The images on the screen were of bison and other big beasts
scritching and scratching their backs against trees and rocks, and the
lyrics preached an utterly animalistic sort of common sense. “When I’m
hungry, I eat. When I’m thirsty, I drink. I get my fires lit up with a
match, and when I’m itchy, I scratch.”
Looking at it one way, I suppose the song could be read as the case
against self-control, doing exactly what you want when you want it. But
I think the song has more to do with the virtues of instinct, the
simple categories of needs that we all need to meet–but not exceed. So
if you’ll excuse me, I have to go look for a scratch-worthy tree…
Click here for more Sesame Street anniversary memories, lessons, and wishes.
And don’t miss Valerie’s moving post about how Big Bird is her Power Animal.
And don’t forget to post your own memories!
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