Embarking on the dating journey can be quite challenging, and the characters from The Far Side reflect our struggles in navigating love and relationships. Despite the vast array of potential partners, many individuals find themselves encountering less-than-ideal dating situations all too frequently. While the quest for true love is a common desire among singles, the process is often marred by awkward encounters and uncomfortable moments.
Gary Larson’s The Far Side adeptly captures the tumultuous landscape of dating, often portraying the numerous pitfalls that can derail an evening. From unappealing physical traits to parents who overshadow romantic moments, these comics showcase how love can be both sought after and hilarious in its mishaps. With that in mind, let’s delve into 10 hilarious Far Side comics that epitomize the trials of dating.
1. “And Always Just Before a Big Date!”
Originally Published: May 4, 1983
For many, the lead-up to a date can be the most stressful part. This comic illustrates a man’s dismay as he notices a tree sprouting from his head just before his date. His resigned remark, “Wouldn’t you know it!. .. And always just before a big date!”speaks volumes about the anxiety that often accompanies dating.
We’ve all been there—unexpected flaws, like a glaring pimple or a disastrous hairdo, can easily shatter one’s confidence before the first impression is even made, underlining the truth that first impressions are crucial.
2. “Bobby Got Sheared Today, Luanne”
Originally Published: April 26, 1986
This comic highlights the importance of appearance during a date. Luanne’s shock upon seeing Bobby, who’s just been sheared, humorously conveys how changes in looks can significantly impact expectations. While beauty is subjective, a drastic transformation—like a naked sheep—might lead to second thoughts about the evening ahead.
Next time, Bobby might reconsider his grooming choices before an important outing.
3. “This May Not Be Wise on a First Date…”
Originally Published: January 22, 1988
First dates can be unpredictable, and this comic examines the potential pitfalls of dining choices. The male snake’s decision to order “garlic wharf rats” might seem like a fun risk, but it raises the question of how such choices can affect future interactions. The reality is that food choices—especially pungent ones—can jeopardize chemistry between two people, highlighting the importance of mindfulness in dating.
4. “You Get My Daughter Home Before Sunrise”
Originally Published: May 6, 1985
Parental approval—or disapproval—can add another layer of complexity to dating. This Far Side comic illustrates the humorous yet tense situation of a boy on a date with a vampire girl whose parents deliver a stern command: “You get my daughter home before sunrise.”This situational comedy underlines just how crucial parental dynamics can be in shaping dating experiences.
5. “I Just Don’t Feel The Relationship Is Working Out”
Originally Published: August 12, 1980
Even successful first dates can fail to blossom into lasting relationships. This comic depicts a woman across from a porcupine who’s enduring painful consequences from their romance. Her declaration, “I just don’t feel the relationship is working out,”humorously captures the idea that not every match is meant to be, especially when one party ends up with injuries!
6. “He Felt Himself Turning Even Redder”
Originally Published: February 19, 1991
In this particularly surreal comic, an apple’s date takes a bizarre turn when a worm emerges from its forehead. The humorous caption, indicating the apple’s embarrassment, reflects a common, relatable theme: the fear of unexpected situations derailing a romantic encounter. It humorously highlights how even minor mishaps can heighten nerves in dating scenarios.
7. “Not On Our First Date, You Don’t!”
Originally Published: February 15, 1984
While some individuals may feel comfortable with physical gestures on the first date, others are reluctant. This Far Side comic humorously captures the antics of two clowns, where the male clown’s attempt to smash a pie in his date’s face is promptly halted with a firm, “Not on our first date, you don’t!” This mirrors the varying comfort levels people experience when navigating romantic interactions.
8. “If I Just Remember to Act Shy and Vulnerable…”
Originally Published: December 9, 1982
The struggle of attracting a partner is evident in this comic featuring a diminutive man gazing up at a larger woman. His internal monologue about needing to “act shy and vulnerable” humorously critiques the tendency for some individuals to feign characteristics they believe are more attractive rather than embracing their true selves.
9. “Date Rejection Lines”
Originally Published: April 3, 1992
The sting of rejection can feel all too familiar, and this comic captures an exaggerated scenario where women provide outlandish excuses to avoid dates. One woman says she needs to wash her hair, while another claims she must write to her favorite detergent company. Larson pokes fun at the absurdity of rejection, underscoring how it’s often better to be honest than to concoct elaborate excuses.
10. “Oh, Wonderful – You’re Early”
Originally Published: November 18, 1986
This comic features a porcupine whose eagerness leads him to arrive early, catching his date in a less-than-flattering state as she wrangles with curlers. Her sarcastic response, “Oh, wonderful – you’re early,”humorously illustrates the fine line between punctuality and awkwardness. For future dates, it’s advisable for both parties to align on a time that respects each other’s readiness.