Back in Time Today
The Far Side comics, created by Gary Larson, have entertained readers with their quirky humor and unique perspectives for decades.
Despite their age, many of these comics still resonate with audiences today.
Below is a selection of 11 Far Side comics that have remained relevant and humorous through the years.
1. Midvale School for the Gifted (1986)
The Midvale School for the Gifted comic depicts a young boy struggling to open a door clearly marked ‘Pull’ by pushing it instead. This simple scene humorously comments on the irony and absent-minded moments we all experience. The comic cleverly highlights how intelligence doesn’t always equate to common sense.
It’s a lighthearted reminder that sometimes the smartest among us can overlook the simplest cues in life. The image, with its timeless setting and universal theme, continues to elicit smiles and chuckles from new generations of readers.
2. Cow Tools (1982)
Cow Tools features a cow standing in front of a table with a set of bizarre and unusable tools. The comic confounded readers with its absurdity, sparking widespread discussion about its meaning. Despite its initial perplexity, the humor lies in its sheer randomness and the cow’s puzzled expression.
This comic has become iconic, representing the unpredictable and whimsical nature of The Far Side. Its enduring appeal is a testament to how humor can arise from the most unexpected and illogical scenarios, keeping audiences intrigued and entertained.
3. Bummer of a Birthmark, Hal (1983)
In Bummer of a Birthmark, Hal, we see a deer with a conspicuous bullseye birthmark on its side, expressing concern. This comic humorously exaggerates the concept of unfortunate traits and how they can make one a target—literally, in Hal’s case.
Through visual irony, it effectively conveys the theme of vulnerability and the quirks of nature. The humor is timeless because it taps into universal fears of standing out in undesirable ways, making it a favorite among readers who appreciate its blend of wit and insight.
4. How Birds See the World (1985)
How Birds See the World offers a humorous take on the perspective of birds. In this comic, the familiar suburban landscape is skewed, with disproportionate and exaggerated elements, reflecting how birds might interpret the world.
The humor derives from the distortion of everyday scenes, highlighting the creativity and imagination behind Larson’s work. It serves as a playful nudge to consider other viewpoints, reminding readers of the endless possibilities when viewing the world through different lenses.
5. Same Planet, Different Worlds (1987)
Same Planet, Different Worlds presents two seemingly identical planets with vastly different life forms and environments. This comic cleverly illustrates how minor changes can lead to entirely separate outcomes.
The humor stems from its speculative nature, encouraging readers to ponder the ‘what ifs’ of life and evolution. Its imaginative depiction of parallel worlds continues to captivate audiences, reminding us of the infinite variations that can exist within the same universe.
6. The Boneless Chicken Ranch (1981)
The Boneless Chicken Ranch depicts chickens lounging limply, embodying the literal interpretation of ‘boneless.’ This comic plays on the absurdity of language, turning a common phrase into a visual gag.
Its humor lies in the literal-mindedness and visual pun, which has remained a source of amusement for decades. The scene invites readers to laugh at the unexpected twists language can offer, securing its place as a classic in The Far Side collection.
7. What We Say to Dogs vs. What They Hear (1984)
This comic contrasts human-to-dog communication with what dogs perceive—a humorous gibberish. It’s a playful take on the gap between human intentions and canine understanding.
The humor lies in emphasizing the disconnect and the futility of complex communication with pets. Its relatable theme resonates with pet owners, highlighting the endearing yet comical misunderstandings that occur in our attempts to bond with animals.
8. The Real Reason Dinosaurs Went Extinct (1987)
In this comic, dinosaurs are depicted engaging in reckless and unhealthy behaviors, humorously suggested as the real reason for their extinction. It’s a playful jab at self-destructive tendencies, applying them to ancient creatures.
The anachronism adds a layer of comedy, as viewers recognize the absurdity of modern habits in prehistoric contexts. This twist on historical events continues to entertain and provoke laughter, highlighting human folly through the lens of the distant past.
9. Luposlipophobia (1983)
Luposlipophobia introduces the faux fear of being chased by wolves around a kitchen table on a newly waxed floor. The comic humorously invents a ridiculous phobia, poking fun at the human tendency to create irrational fears.
Its charm lies in the absurdity and specificity of the scenario, encouraging laughter at how easily our minds can conjure up unlikely threats. The clever play on language and psychology keeps this comic relevant and entertaining.
10. God at His Computer (1988)
God at His Computer portrays God using a computer, with a finger poised over the ‘smite’ key, humorously suggesting divine intervention through technology. The comic plays with modern themes, imagining celestial operations in a digital age.
The humor stems from the blend of the sacred and the contemporary, offering a light laugh at the intersection of divinity and everyday technology. This clever juxtaposition continues to amuse and engage readers with its inventive scenario.
11. The Thagomizer (1982)
The Thagomizer introduces a fictional term for the spiked tail of a stegosaurus, credited to the fallen caveman Thag. This comic humorously invents a term that has actually been adopted by paleontologists.
Its charm lies in the blend of humor and education, as it playfully interacts with scientific terminology. The clever wordplay and lasting impact on the scientific community highlight the comic’s unique influence and enduring appeal.