For nearly fifteen years, Gary Larson captivated audiences with his iconic comic strip, The Far Side. Throughout this period, he crafted numerous cartoons that ranged from beloved classics to more obscure sketches. While many of his works have solidified their place in popular culture, countless gems remain underappreciated.
These overlooked cartoons share the same humor and creativity that fans adore, and they deserve recognition from new and long-time followers alike. As readers continue to explore the quirky universe of Larson’s work, it’s essential to shed light on these hidden treasures.
10. Executioners-In-Training: A Forgotten Classic
First Published: November 16, 1993
This intriguing cartoon showcases a classroom of trainees at an “Electric Chair Operator Night School,”where the instructor emphasizes that flipping the switch “down and up real fast”is not the correct technique. Larson’s early penchant for dark humor is evident here, exemplifying his unique style that matured over the years.
The visual aspect, particularly the exaggerated “On/Off”switch sketch on the chalkboard, adds depth to the gag, while the expressions of the students enhance its comedic effect.
9. Not Every Cartoon Earned a Participation Trophy
First Published: November 2, 1993
In this panel, we find a Boy Scout troop equipped with “Big Boy Velcro Kits,”humorously acknowledging that campers who struggle with knot-tying still get the opportunity to experience the great outdoors. Despite its comedic premise, this panel doesn’t fully embrace the absurdity typical of The Far Side, leading it to be less memorable compared to Larson’s other works.
8. Details That Obscured the Punchline
First Published: December 17, 1991
In this cartoon, the scenario features a buffalo with a harness targeting a patient’s nose on an operating table. Dr. Irwin Blumenthal prepares to startle the bull, showcasing Larson’s unique blend of humor and absurdity. However, the complexity of the panel may overshadow its humorous punchline, resulting in a delayed reaction from the audience.
7. Many Characters Remain Unnoticed
First Published: February 19, 1991
This humorous panel depicts an apple picking up a date, only to be embarrassed by a worm emerging from its head at a critical moment. While this relatable scenario is amusing, the apple has not achieved the level of memorability reserved for Larson’s more iconic characters, like his chickens and bears.
6. The Sistine Chapel’s Floor: A Humorous Reflection
First Published: January 30, 1991
This insightful cartoon reminds us that “Lambini & Sons”laid the Sistine Chapel’s floor, humorously suggesting that modest contributions often go unnoticed in history. Through Larson’s clever juxtaposition, readers are invited to contemplate the countless unsung heroes who contribute to spectacular achievements.
5. Revisiting Classic Far Side Comics
First Published: July 26, 1990
In a captivating scenario, a janitor accidentally unplugs the power at the “Frozen Friends Cryogenic Enterprise,”highlighting the absurdity of routines in unexpected situations. This panel is a testament to Larson’s unique style, seamlessly blending humor with the absurd, and deserves a revival as new audiences discover the charm of his work.
4. The Coinage of Uncommon Terms
First Published: October 16, 1985
While Gary Larson famously coined the term “thagomizer,”notably recognized within the scientific community, many of his other inventive phrases did not take off. One such moment features the fictional term “luposlipaphobia,”defined as the fear of being chased by wolves while wearing socks on a slippery floor. This clever concept showcases Larson’s imaginative wit, albeit in a highly niche context.
3. Challenges in Retaining Recognition
First Published: January 28, 1984
This comic follows a safari enthusiast who becomes entangled in a net, while a gazelle leaps effortlessly over him. Although this scenario may provoke a smile, it lacks the unique impact necessary to remain etched in memory, competing against a backdrop of countless Far Side panels.
2. The Pitfalls of Over-Simplicity
First Published: April 15, 1982
At times, cartoons fail to resonate when their humor is overly simplistic. An example from Larson depicts two dogs scratching a man’s belly, causing his leg to involuntarily kick. Although straightforward and amusing, the lack of depth may render it quickly forgettable compared to other more intricate jokes.
1. Capturing the Moment Before Chaos Ensues
First Published: May 21, 1980
The early classic captures a moment of innocent ignorance; kids in a tree fort remain unaware of a beaver’s relentless work on the trunk. This illustration represents Larson’s characteristic blend of clever captions and imagery, yet it seems to have slipped into obscurity among other prominent works. Nonetheless, it deserves renewed appreciation as fans rediscover the brilliance of Larson’s craft.