With each generation comes another set of concerns. And these concerns may be converted into comic fodder with a cartoonist like Segar assistant, Bud Sagendorf.
The generation that I am speaking of is the 'Baby Boomer' generation. Yet, some might argue that SWEE'PEA is technically too old to be an actual 'Boomer' - he is a perpetual youth and may be used as a component of any generation. It was Sagendorf that once said that he and his boss, Elzie Segar shared the same beliefs - therefore, "SWEE'PEA will not grow up but will remain a loving and loyal 'adoptid' baby for POPEYE to guide and protect." Hence, he is able to identify with any generation perpetually.
In a comic from 1963, Mr. Sagendorf decides to connect SWEE'PEA to the generation of 'Boomers'. As the story opens, WIMPY offers some assurance to POPEYE who seems worried about his progeny, "Don't fret, ol' pal.. SWEE'PEA is acting quite normal!"
POPEYE looks in SWEE'PEA's general direction and responds with, "But he jus' sits and stews!"
Sure enough, the lad is seated on a small ottoman. He rests his chin on his fist as he stares blankly. Small beads of perspiration fall from his worried brow.
POPEYE adds, "He keeps sayin' he is confused.. He says he jus' doesn't know which way to turn!"
WIMPY offers some sage advice, "Each generation has its own problems, and their solution is up to the individual! - SWEE'PEA is just feeling the pressure of growing up!"
The ol' salt interjects, "He is jus' a li'l boy kid an' he shouldn't have to worry so!"
The burger moocher adds, "Perhaps if I had a word with him!"
WIMPY proceeds to the room where SWEE'PEA is seated. He leans forward a bit, holds his left palm upward and says, "You're starting to learn about life, young man! - You're finding out it's not all a bowl of cherries!" The burger bandit places his left index finger into the air to make a point, "The trick to life is to step right up to your problems and make decisions! - Don't hesitate! ACT AT ONCE!"
The elder's advice seems to click. SWEE'PEA jumps up and shouts, "Thank ya, WIMPY! I will do it!"
In the final panel, the youth moves over to their television set and adds, "I will watch the western tonight and next week the doctor show!"
Many have said that the 'Baby Boomers' are also the 'TV generation'. In this comic, Mr. Sagendorf makes a point of spotlighting this. But in today's world, it simply would not work. SWEE'PEA would have a choice of a multitude of channels, and he would also be able to record them all on a VHS tape or a DVR (Digital Video Recorder) and not miss a thing on television.