“Who lives in a pineapple under the sea?” Yes, for those of us who watch the iconic Nickelodeon cartoon series, we know the answer to that question. It’s of course ‘SpongeBobSquarePants’. Since the 30-minute animated series began back in April of '99, it has become Nickelodeon’s highest rated and critically acclaim TV series. Perhaps the thing that has made this show so popular is that it’s a program that not only children enjoy watching but adults as well. So what is it about the show about an undersea sponge who happens to live in a pineapple in a place called Bikini Bottom that so many find entertaining?
Well, first let's look at SpongeBob in general, he along with his friends Patrick Starr, Sandy Cheeks, Squidward Tentacles, and Mr. Krabs all live underwater. When we stop to think about it, who would actually think about creating a show about underwater creatures, especially a sponge? Well, SpongBob SquarePants was created by Stephen Hillenberg, who at one time studied marine biology. His love for underwater life led to him coming up with the concept to create this show which dealt with sea life. It was a simple concepts but over the years as the show progressed, theories from die-hard fans of the show of all ages started emerging online about what SpongeBob represents.
Some of these theories can be pretty out there as some would discover by doing a basic search about what SpongeBob represents. However, when we stop ourselves to think about what it does truly represent, maybe we get the heart of why adults and kids alike seem to be drawn to the show. It's good entertaining fun that’ll make us laugh and perhaps forget about our troubles for a little while. Perhaps this is what SpongeBob truly represents, a way to relax and unwind without having to over analyze what the show is about, although some have tried. But maybe the wisest thing to do is just sit back and enjoy the stories.
For others that do want to analyze it, let me sum it up for you. This show represents what true friendship is about, always being determined, and making the best out of any tough situation. That for me is what I see this animated series representing.
These stories over the years have included some quirky misadventure along with some hidden lessons. For kids, perhaps the thing that stands out the most are the characters who children can relate to, especially SpongeBob who’s definitely a kid at heart. For adults, there’s the quirky comedy that isn't lost on them as it may be on kids. Yes, at times the stories can get silly but the program is still funny. Maybe that’s the true magic to the SpongeBob SquarePants formula. It's just good quality entertainment that’s fun to watch at any age.