Gary Larson, the mastermind behind The Far Side, has always maintained that the true measure of the comic’s success lies in its ability to evoke strong reactions from readers. Whether the response is a bemused “What the?”or a shocked “My God!”, Larson’s unique humor has left an indelible mark on the world of comics. With three decades having passed since the final strip was published, and its golden era occurring in the mid-1980s, it’s interesting to analyze how societal perceptions of his “edgier”jokes have shifted over time.
As new readers approach Larson’s work today, some comics that once sparked controversy might now seem tame, while others may seem more sensitive to modern audiences, especially concerning topics like homelessness and societal perceptions of people living on the streets.
12 Social Critique or Insensitivity: The Far Side’s Blunt Humor
First Published: January 23, 1981
In a striking panel, an “Acme Bumaway”truck is depicted vacuuming up a man asleep on a bench, using newspapers as his blanket. While it appears straightforward, this form of humor borders on dark territory. Contemporary audiences, often more empathetic toward homelessness, might misinterpret the underlying message as callous, focusing solely on the figure rather than the critique. Larson cleverly highlights the dehumanizing attitudes toward unhoused individuals, challenging readers to reflect on their societal impressions.
11 Evolving Perceptions: The Changing Impact of The Far Side’s Humor
First Published: February 5, 1981
Initially, The Far Side appeared in a limited number of publications, which grew substantially throughout the early 1980s. During the formative years, Larson’s surreal humor was either loved or left bewildered. The facial expressions and gradations of panic in a multi-panel comic—where a man feeding pigeons is eventually devoured—illustrate how humor evolved with readers, who slowly adapted to its bizarre, comedic approach.
10 The Dark Side of Family Fun: A Father and Son at the Beach
First Published: March 27, 1981
In one of the darkest entries, a father, buried in sand by his son, pleads for rescue as the tide encroaches. It’s a comic that teeters on the edge of bleakness, encapsulated by the contrast between childlike playfulness and impending disaster, leaving readers in suspense and inducing a potent mix of humor and dread.
9 Fun Turned Tragic: The Fragility of Joy in The Far Side
First Published: April 25, 1981
Another classic featuring smashed windows and unexpected outcomes showcases a pogo stick box, an array of scuff marks, and a shattered window. The comic relies solely on imagery to deliver its comedic punch, demonstrating Larson’s talent for eliciting laughter and gasps without needing a single word.
8 Empathy in Perspective: A Hunter and His Prey
First Published: May 5, 1981
The poignant imagery of a bear waving at a hunter through a scope communicates more than humor, it evokes empathy for animals at risk. Larson’s penchant for blending comedy with naturalist themes shines through, urging readers to rethink their relationship with nature.
7 Beyond the Window: A New Take on Dance Mishaps
First Published: June 11, 1981
This cartoon humorously depicts a dancing couple crashing out a window mid-tango, serving as a playful reminder of the perils lurking in seemingly innocent moments. The punchline, built around the visual shock, encourages readers to appreciate the blend of absurdity and darkness inherent in Larson’s work.
6 A Playful Dog Hides a Dark Secret
First Published: July 7, 1981
A seemingly innocent scene where a dog’s paws are visible outside its doghouse belies the chaotic aftermath of discarded bicycles towering around it. This clever composition creates a disquieting contrast that evokes both confusion and dark humor, showcasing Larson’s talent for subverting expectations.
5 Gruesome Humor: A Most Unusual Show-and-Tell
First Published: August 19, 1981
This underrated comic exemplifies Larson’s penchant for pushing boundaries, where a student brings a head in a jar for show-and-tell. The nonchalant demeanor of the teacher adds an unsettling layer of humor and highlights Larson’s mastery of the macabre.
4 A Darkly Comedic Twist: The Wile Bird
First Published: September 29, 1981
In a cheeky caption, a caged bird says, “Polly want a finger”as its owner innocently offers a cracker. The composition skillfully directs attention to the bird’s almost gleeful expression, creating a tension-filled moment ripe for shock and humor, perfect for eliciting a “My God!”reaction.
3 Sweet Sacrifice: Worms for a Baby
First Published: October 10, 1981
This absurd premise, where birds delight in feeding a baby worms, is both grotesque and surprisingly endearing. The juxtaposition of horror and tenderness reflects an underlying theme of unconventional care in the natural world.
2 Gallows Humor: A Lesson on Life and Death
First Published: November 5, 1981
This comic illustrates gallows humor with a twist: a man who has temporarily escaped death due to a rookie executioner’s mistake. The juxtaposition of a grim scenario with a casual, childlike instruction on knot-tying expertly captures the absurdity and inevitable comedy entwined with existential fear.
1 The Tortured Artist: Exploring Larson’s Creative Struggles
First Published: December 19, 1981
Over time, Larson faced increasing discomfort regarding his role as a cartoonist, leading to multiple hiatuses before retiring in 1995. While he relished creating The Far Side, the societal pressure and public perception of his “edgy” humor often conflicted with his personal values and identity, reflecting Jekyll-and-Hyde complexities inherent to the creative process.