Michelle Jeon
Features
The Carp is the iconic mascot of Earl Haig, and a reflection of the school’s spirit. The idol is cherished by all students and inarguably the focus of attention at all major events. In October, the Carp participated in the arduous Terry Fox Run by running alongside students of Haig, and made its appearance in everyone’s photos at Carpe Day, last June.
Due to the Carp’s popularity, questions are often proposed regarding its identity, like whether it should be referred to as “Carp” or “Carpe”. In an exclusive interview, the Carp explains, “I usually do like going by Carp more because I’m named after the fish, Carp. While the school slogan, ‘Carpe Diem’ is named after me.” Previously, the Carp had also stated that its daily mood is the ultimate factor that decides whether it wants to be referred to as “Carp” or “Carpe”.
Affiliated with the Student Activity Council, it is prohibited for the Carp’s identity to be revealed outside of the council. When asked the inevitable question, the Carp assured, “one thing, the school will know in the coming times who Carp really is.” The Carp further provokes the curiosity of Earl Haig students by hinting at a possible identity reveal in the near future.
Many students aspire to be inside the Carp costume to continue its prominent legacy. However, most are unaware of the commitment and consequences of the job, like having to be stuck inside a sweat-drenched, fetid costume for hours without any compensation. The Carp seems to be a job prone to an identity crisis due to the frequent number of times its identity is questioned.