By J.B. Fitzsimmons | Gloucester Correspondent
GLOUCESTER — The Department of Public Works yard on Poplar Street has seen its share of oddities this summer as the Republic Services labor strike nears one month, but nothing prepared residents for the sight of Marvin — a living, breathing, oddly wise mound of trash believed to be the child of Marjory the Trash Heap from Fraggle Rock.
DPW staff have said that Marvin has taken up permanent residence atop the recycling pile, declaring itself “the oracle of corrugated prophecy” and dispensing “recycling enlightenment” and unsolicited life advice to anyone within earshot.
“It’s like going to confession, but with empties instead of a full flask,” said Perkins Street resident Arlene Ruggiero, who stopped by to drop off two weeks’ worth of Amazon boxes. “I tossed in my recycling and Marvin told me, ‘You don’t need that treadmill. Walk the earth.’ I don’t know whether to thank him or call the police.”
City officials insist Marvin’s presence is unofficial but harmless, claiming the heap offers “motivational guidance” and “mild entertainment” to residents struggling with the yard’s chaotic new drop-off system.
“We’re not equipped to regulate sentient garbage,” said Director of Public Works Mike Hale. “But if people want to ask a pile of living trash how to sort out their life, that’s between them and Marvin. Plus, he hasn’t eaten anyone yet.”
Resident reactions remain mixed.
“I asked Marvin where I should toss my empty Monster cans and he told me my marriage was doomed unless I stopped microwaving seafood,” said Andrew Williams of Prospect Street. “I don’t need that kind of energy on a Friday.”
For now, Marvin seems content to remain at the yard, accepting offerings of aluminum cans, glass bottles, cardboard, and broken spirits. He has even promised to deliver “weekly recycling horoscopes” if someone brings him a pair of sunglasses and a folding beach chair.
When asked for comment, Marvin simply said, “Bring me your yogurt containers and your shame.” Signed photos will be available next week at the DPW office.
The Dogtown Reader 