Tradition / Region: American Mythology
Alternate Names: —
Category: Forest dweller
The Myth
The Rubberado is a strange and comical creature known for its unusual body and peculiar way of moving. It cannot leap, fly, jump, climb, swim, run, walk, creep, or crawl. Instead, the Rubberado moves in only one way: it bounces.
From the moment it begins moving, the Rubberado bounces endlessly from place to place. Each time it lands, it laughs, and then springs up again, continuing this motion without pause. Its movement is uncontrollable and repetitive, as though its body were made entirely of rubber.
The Rubberado is said to have a tasty smell, though it is not edible. Anyone foolish enough to try to eat it is warned of the consequences. If a person does so, they will begin to bounce and laugh uncontrollably, just like the Rubberado itself. This condition does not pass quickly—the victim will continue to bounce and laugh for days and days, unable to stop.
Because of this, the Rubberado is regarded less as a dangerous creature and more as a source of endless trouble and ridicule. Its presence brings chaos not through violence, but through uncontrollable motion and laughter, turning anyone who interferes with it into a living reflection of its own absurd nature.
The Rubberado remains a reminder that not all monsters threaten with teeth or claws—some punish curiosity with laughter that never ends.
Gallery
Sources
Schwartz, A., & Rounds, G. (1978). Kickle Snifters and Other Fearsome Critters.
Interpretive Lenses
Religious Readings
- Christian Ascetic Deep Dive
Philosophical Readings
- Nietzschean Deep Dive
Psychological Readings
- Jungian Deep Dive
Esoteric Deep Dive
- Hermetic Deep Dive
Political / Social Readings
- Marxist Deep Dive
Other
- How to Invite The Rubberado