Content Warning: This article discusses sensitive topics, including suicide.
The Far Side, created by Gary Larson, is well-known for its dark and edgy humor. Many of the comics from its print run between 1980 and 1995 are particularly notable for their handling of taboo subjects, often resulting in deep discomfort among readers. The surrealist and absurd nature of Larson’s punchlines frequently contrasts with their grim topics, leading to discussions around the appropriateness of certain jokes, especially those touching on themes of death, cruelty, pain, and murder.
During its rise to national fame in the mid-1980s, The Far Side attracted controversy largely due to Larson’s bold creativity to tackle sensitive issues head-on. While Larson occasionally skirted the edges of taste with topics like suicide and cannibalism, these particular instances led to some of the most memorable and contentious comics from the series, engaging readers in a dialogue about what constitutes acceptable humor.
10 This Iconic Comic Showcases Larson’s Limits on Dark Humor
First Published: April 16, 1980
The inaugural year of The Far Side was pivotal for establishing Larson’s unique comedic perspective. An early example features two detectives comforting a heartbroken woman whose houseplant has, disturbingly, committed suicide. The humor emerges from the absurdity of the scenario and the woman’s heartfelt mourning for a plant, creating a bizarre juxtaposition that appeals to some while disturbing others.
9 Nonhuman Characters Illuminate Human Sorrows
First Published: December 27, 1983
In another example, Larson portrays a snake expressing despair upon finding her partner has hung itself. While the punchline hinges on the grim visual of the situation, many readers may find the emotional weight too significant, leading to mixed reactions about whether such humor is appropriate.
8 Cannibalism and Absurdity Merge in a Ventriloquist Joke
First Published: June 3, 1986
This iconic comic features a ventriloquist who reveals his deranged tendencies toward cannibalism. Here, Larson cleverly plays with common shipwreck tropes to create a scene that balances on the edge of absurdity—showcasing how humor can arise from even the darkest subjects when juxtaposed attractively with silliness.
7 A Disturbing New Take on Snake Jokes
First Published: October 28, 1986
In this follow-up, an older snake narrates a horror story about discovering a skeleton in a closet. Though this simple gag employs Larson’s signature style, it raises questions about the effectiveness of mixing fanciful elements with darker themes, as the humor lacks the elevation needed to resonate strongly.
6 A Classic Panel Satirizing Cannibalism
First Published: July 22, 1987
In one of its most recognized comics, a cow confronts another about its appalling act of grilling hamburgers. Here, Larson’s use of anthropomorphized characters permits a humorous examination of cannibalism without the same levels of discomfort, allowing readers to navigate the moral implications through the lens of absurdity.
5 The Subtlety of Dark Humor in The Far Side
First Published: December 18, 1987
Over three decades since Larson’s retirement, debates continue about which comics truly cross the line into poor taste. Enthusiasts often reflect on the darkest jokes within The Far Side, with many potentially dark panels still being overlooked in assessments.
4 Exploring the Dark Side of Sibling Relationships
First Published: January, 1988
This comic highlights the interactions among siblings with a dark twist, featuring an older brother teasingly suggesting that his sister’s doll may be contemplating suicide. This portrayal resonates strongly, as it reflects the complexities of childhood dynamics and the potential loss of innocence prompted by sibling rivalry.
3 Addressing Workplace Violence with Dark Humor
First Published: November 30, 1990
This comic depicts a shockingly brutal scenario within a workplace, blending humor with a grim topic. As audiences face escalating incidents of workplace violence, perspectives regarding Larson’s portrayal of such subjects have evolved, making this comic’s reception more complicated than it may have been at the time of its release.
2 Another Look at Active Shooter Humor
First Published: April 4, 1991
This instance of The Far Side taps into a morbid sense of humor, presenting a fantastical narrative of a squirrel involved in a shooting incident. While the absurdity softens the impact of violence depicted, the ethics of such comic material remain a topic of considerable debate among readers.
1 Taboo Topics Unite in a Comically Absurd Scene
First Published: May 11, 1992
This notorious comic captures an outrageous blend of dark humor and absurdity, showcasing a woman shooting her human husband in front of her bear companion. The surreal elements soften the taboo depicted, allowing it to stand among the most memorable panels in Larson’s repertoire, illustrating how comedy can thrive on the edge of societal norms.