The Far Side has long captivated audiences with its distinctive blend of humor, especially when tackling topics considered taboo. One particularly infamous example is the 1987 cartoon featuring a cannibal cow, known for the line “you’re sick, Jesse,” where a chef-hat-wearing cow is caught grilling burgers made from its own kind. While this comic remains a fan favorite, fewer people know about its unsettling follow-up that takes the dark humor even further.
Renowned for his unconventional style, creator Gary Larson skillfully utilized animal characters to critique various aspects of human behavior, often traversing the line of good taste. This ability to address controversial subjects became a hallmark of The Far Side, cementing its status in the comic landscape as a bold and innovative work.
Even though The Far Side is characterized by standalone strips, Larson frequently revisited themes and punchlines, providing insights into his creative process. These “pseudo-sequels” are key to understanding the mind of an artist who thrived on chaos and humor.
Cows Embrace Cannibalism In This Shocking Far Side Barnyard Comic
First Published: May 26, 1993
In the original “You’re sick, Jesse”comic, a cow with a spatula is humorously confronted by two other cows who condemn its cannibalistic tendencies. This particular strip struck a chord during the height of The Far Side’s popularity and continues to be one of Larson’s most memorable works.
Fast forward to 1993, Larson revisited the concept with another eyebrow-raising panel. This time, a group of cows conspires inside a barn around one cow who is seated at a table, tasting steak and exclaiming, “I’d say we taste a little like chicken.”This comic not only reignites the shocking premise but also presents a twisted acceptance of cannibalism among the characters.
While unnamed, there’s room for speculation that one of these cows could be Jesse from the previous comic. The interconnectedness of the two strips invites readers to imagine the narrative linking them, highlighting Larson’s penchant for creative storytelling.
The Far Side’s “Sequel”Comics Show Which Ideas Nagged At Author Gary Larson Most
Why Some Far Side Jokes Recurred
The recurrence of certain scenarios in The Far Side raises questions about Larson’s creative process. Though separated by years, these “sequel” comics seem to reflect his desire to revisit ideas he may have felt he hadn’t fully explored or executed. Fans of Larson often wonder what prompted these returns to particular themes and scenarios throughout his illustrious, albeit brief, career.
Several hypotheses emerge. Larson may have believed he could craft a more effective joke by revisiting old material or perhaps he was inspired by a past comic, leading to new and interesting interpretations of previously established concepts.
The Lasting Impact Of Gary Larson’s (Relatively) Short Career As A Cartoonist
The Cartoonist, The Myth, The Legend
The fascination surrounding The Far Side endures partially due to the enigmatic aura of Gary Larson himself. Portrayed as a reclusive genius, he stepped away from the cartoon world after just fifteen years at the top, contrasting with contemporaries such as Charles Schulz and Jim Davis, who dedicated their lives to their crafts. This mystique adds an enduring allure to Larson’s work, enticing both new readers and longtime fans alike.