We all tend to scoff when it comes to fortune telling but a little bit of us wants to believe. Tarot cards, horoscopes, crystal gazing and palm reading all fascinate us. The future is uncertain and that frightens us. Having our future predicted can be harmless fun, a bit of escapism. The Magic Ball is another device that keeps us entertained and sometimes frustrates us if we don't get the answer we are looking for.
The ball was invented in 1946 and was immediately popular with a generation that had just endured World War II. Tyco, a subsidiary of Mattel Toy Company, manufactures the Magic 8-Ball, as it is known. Tyco has also been involved in producing model airplanes and railways, Matchbox model cars and Sesame Street toys.
When someone asks the ball a question, there are twenty answers on a standard Magic Ball. These are variables on yes and no or maybe and include Yes, Don't Count on It, It Is Certain, Ask Again Later and My Reply Is No. Most people don't take it very seriously but everyone likes some assurance, especially on emotional or romantic subjects. Some owners have managed to customize their ball by changing the messages. It is quite difficult to dissemble a Magic Ball but it can be done successfully.
There are alternatives to the standard ball available in the stores. One of these is called an Affirmation Ball. It has a smiley face on it and there are twenty affirmations. These are designed to boost self-confidence and put a positive spin on things, such as You Look Marvelous. A Sarcastic Ball is the complete opposite and serves another purpose. Messages include Do I Look Like I Care? The Pink 8-Ball is for people who are searching for or who have found love. This ball advises on dating situations and possible outcomes.
There have been numerous commercial tie-ins with the ball through fast food chains and games manufacturers. The hit TV show, The Simpsons, produced a special edition of Magic Ball in 2002 that showed Bart Simpson spray painting a number 8. The ball featured well known catch phrases from the show. The soothsayer of the future has entered the computer age and several online sites have their own versions of the ball. It's also possible to interact online with the standard format. Future generations will get in on the fun and the ball will remain a part of our popular culture.
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