Comedy has a peculiar way of aging more swiftly than other artistic forms, making it notably impressive that Gary Larson’s The Far Side maintains its humorous appeal even today. Celebrating the milestone of its December 1984 comics turning 40 years old, the humor remains just as engaging and delightful as it was at its inception.
In this article, we spotlight the top 10 The Far Side comics from December 1984, showcasing Larson’s unique wit that includes caveman inventions, freakish bear encounters, and some of his most controversial creations. Prepare for a whimsical trip down memory lane!
10
The Invention of Dessert
Far Side’s December 3, 1984 Comic
In a humorous take, Larson reimagines cavemen pondering the concept of a smaller meal following a large feast. This comic cleverly captures their instincts as hunters, humorously juxtaposing their typical pursuits with the idea of dessert. What if a smaller animal crossed their path, giving birth to the notion of sweet endings to substantial meals?
9
Tracks in the Snow
Far Side’s December 5, 1984 Comic
Demonstrating his mastery of visual storytelling, Larson delivers a wordless comic where an unfortunate character meets an unseen bear. By leaving the elements of the scenario to the imagination of the reader, the humor resonates deeply and uniquely. Check out the gallery below for more wordless humor from Larson.
8
I See You, I See You
Far Side’s December 6, 1984 Comic
This comic blends dark humor with the everyday life experience of being teased or embarrassed by a parent. As an executioner prepares for his grim task, he is compelled to acknowledge his mother in the audience. The jarring contrast between the gruesome and the commonplace encapsulates the essence of Larson’s humor.
7
Let It Run for a Minute
Far Side’s December 4, 1984 Comic
Larson humorously contrasts a dire survival scenario with a mundane request typically heard in an office: to wait for the water fountain to become colder. Such absurdity illustrates Larson’s keen observational skills regarding human behavior, pushing boundaries on what’s acceptable in life-threatening situations.
6
The Importance of Stretching
Far Side’s December 26, 1984 Comic
This comic shows Viking raiders calmly stretching before embarking on their pillaging spree, merging the fierce with the absurd. The unexpected sight of such fierce warriors in a moment of levity contributes to the humor Larson artfully delivers in this visual gag.
5
Bedtime, Leroy
Far Side’s December 7, 1984 Comic
The humor in this comic hinges on the details—a woman calms her pet bird to sleep by draping a cloth featuring predatory creatures over its cage. The bird’s palpable stress over the images adds another layer to Larson’s nuanced and sometimes risky style of humor, a rarity in comics that demands careful readership.
4
Here, Fifi!
Far Side’s December 12, 1984 Comic
This particular comic elicits debate among fans for its humor and potential insensitivity. Larson notes that it marked a pivotal moment where his work attracted significant negative feedback. The humor derives from the contrast between the cheery call of the owner and the audience’s awareness of the underlying threat, culminating in a complex reaction.
Gary Larson’s cartoon made me furious. It was cruel, stupid and ridiculous, not to mention hideous, idiotic and sick. In fact, all of Larson’s cartoons make me furious.
3
You Might Be a Kangaroo…
Far Side’s December 28, 1984 Comic
This comic captures the essence of dealing with self-proclaimed experts, illustrated through a literal kangaroo caught in a conversation with a know-it-all adjacent to it. Humor often springs from life’s absurdities, especially when the animals become unwitting victims of human folly.
2
Stay in the Cab, Vern
Far Side’s December 22, 1984 Comic
In yet another display of Larson’s wit, this strip depicts a bear employing a ruse to draw unsuspecting folks closer, demonstrating the clever absurdity that often characterizes his work. The overarching theme questions who the true predator is in moments of unexpected danger.
1
The Invention of Fire
Far Side’s December 25, 1984 Comic
Returning to the theme of caveman innovation, Larson flips expectations once more, envisioning a group of early humans engaged in an intense research and development endeavor to master fire. This comic brilliantly contrasts the notion of chaos in fire with the mirthful side of discovery, showcasing Larson’s enduring humor.
This collection of classic The Far Side comics that celebrate turning 40 is just a glimpse into Larson’s creative genius, exploring recurring themes and highlighting his unique comedic style in December 1984.
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