The jungle often teems with surprises, and none are as unexpected as those found in The Far Side. Within this whimsical realm, explorers often encounter secrets that can be both delightful and dangerous. While some revelations are merely amusing quirks of nature, others, like predatory creatures, pose serious threats to unsuspecting adventurers.
In the unique universe of The Far Side, the adage “expect the unexpected”takes on new meaning amidst the foliage and hidden paths of this vibrant ecosystem. The comic strips crafted by Gary Larson often unveil the jungle’s eccentricities through the lens of animal antics and human folly, delivering a blend of humor and satire.
10
“This One’s Got a Knife”
March 1st, 1983
In this memorable strip, two adventurers are startled by an elephant standing upright, holding a knife—a scene that is as bizarre as it is comical. The sheer absurdity of an elephant appearing as a menacing figure in the jungle is a testament to Larson’s knack for turning the ordinary into the extraordinarily peculiar.
9
“Santarantula!”
Spotting a creature like the Santarantula—a combination of a tarantula and Santa Claus—illustrates the whimsical threats lurking in the jungle. Covered in a Santa hat, this creature may seem festive, but it serves as a reminder that surprises in the wild can come in all shapes and forms.
8
“They Don’t Tell You Which Is Which”
April 27th, 1994
In this hilarious strip, two tourists are puzzled by a guidebook that fails to identify which jungle statue corresponds to an all-knowing or an all-seeing deity. The juxtaposition of their confusion with the obviousness of the statues’ features showcases Larson’s playful critique of human cluelessness in the face of simple truths.
7
“Elephant Skyways”
December 30th, 1983
The concept of an animal skyway, where elephants traverse above the jungle floor, highlights the challenges of survival faced by these majestic creatures. Such imaginative ideas spark curiosity about how different life could be if elephants had their own aerial pathways, avoiding dangers that lurk below.
6
“I’m Gonna Wring de León’s Neck”
July 2nd, 1980
This delightful twist reveals conquistadors stumbling upon a soda fountain rather than the fabled Fountain of Youth, leading to frustrations among the explorers. Their unmet expectations serve as a humorous critique of quests for glory, illustrating how the tales of adventure can take unexpected detours.
5
“Larry of the Lemurs”
July 13th, 1992
In a humorous nod to the jungle’s adaptability, “Larry of the Lemurs”presents a man seamlessly integrating into a community of lemurs. This amusing depiction serves as a reminder of the diverse characters that one might encounter in both fictional jungles and real-life explorations.
4
“Few Remaining Mountain Chihuahuas”
July 21st, 1992
The portrayal of chihuahuas as a rare spectacle in the jungle highlights the satirical nature of Larson’s humor, as these ubiquitous pets become the object of admiration among tourists. This absurdist take on wildlife conservation shines a light on the often ridiculous elements of our perceptions of rarity in nature.
3
“Relax, Worthington”
June 2nd, 1984
This strip captures the juxtaposition of explorers’ bravado against the perils of the unknown as they approach a cave filled with ominous signs. The comic cleverly plays on the tension between their eagerness and the lurking dangers that become clear only upon closer inspection.
2
“Just Nibble at First”
November 14th, 1980
A darkly comedic moment unfolds as explorers walk into a river, unaware of the cunning piranhas that plan to enact their ambush. This scenario not only capitalizes on the thrill of adventure but also throws a spotlight on the jungle’s more sinister inhabitants, capturing the essence of survival in nature.
1
“The Secret Elephant Playground”
May 14th, 1982
In this enchanting strip, two zoologists stumble upon a whimsical playground hidden within the jungle. Elephants frolicking on swings and slides paint a heartwarming picture, offering a delightful secret of nature. Unlike the more perilous surprises, the secret elephant playground is a joyful reminder of the innocence and playfulness of wildlife.