Are objects... dumb?

Look at an object, question it. What is it? Where did it come from, how was it created? Does it do '...' or '...'
Surely an object that can answer so many of your questions isnt just a dumb piece of nothing, definition gives it character, a heritage gives it a past, surely an item that can show you its past and present, and most probably future cant be dumb? Nah, it cant.
Look in front of you, I can see a pencil, here on my desk. This pencil has been used in different hands for multiple purposes, drawing, writing, making lists, making notes and quick sketches. The sketch this pencil drew tells a story too. The pencil has a personality now, it has a colour, a size, a width, weight and length. It has a purpose. Every item around us has something to say. Whether its living, breathing or completely lifeless, no object is dumb.