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With all due respect to the Spooky Season that circles around every October, we here at CBR think that skeletons can be funny year round. Especially when those skeletons are the butt of the joke in an hilarious comics panel created by the genius, Gary Larson.
The Far Side comics have gained an impressive following over the years. Larson’s unique, surrealistic, and often controversial strips have found a home in the hearts of millions. While each installment in the single-panel series stands on its own, Larson also revisits previously employed themes and devices, such as skeletons.
Larson’s creativity shines when viewing multiple strips that use the same element. Comparing his work involving skeletons reveals that Larson uses many different techniques to make readers laugh. Each work presents a complex combination of specific devices and differing gags that amuse and prove worthy of a closer examination.
Archaeologists Make an Important Discovery
Publication Date: Feb. 24, 1994
Important discoveries made in The Far Side universe differ drastically from those of the readers. A prime example is the archaeological find of an intact mail carrier with a canine still attached. The archaeologists making the discovery seem quite excited, especially with the attached dog fossil. The humor isn’t the greatest in the series, but the situation and art present food for thought.
The inspiration of thought is a staple of The Far Side comics. In this case, the reader is left to wonder what might have happened to allow the preservation of the fossils and the mail carrier’s hat and bag. Another question is why the archaeologists are ecstatic to find the dog with the skeleton. The theme and inspiration of thought sneak this interesting entry into the rankings.
Getting Attention Shouldn't Be This Hard
Publication Date: Dec. 26, 1983
Getting the attention of others isn’t always easy. Sometimes, extreme measures must be taken. Typically, this would be in the form of a polite conversation or email. However, those in The Far Side world take a much different approach. Such as climbing atop a partially constructed dinosaur fossil. While unorthodox and certainly not recommended, the method proves effective and amusing.
The dialogue and illustrated mannerisms of the man on the dinosaur provide a child-like quality. The scene is reminiscent of youthful behavior, which adds an element of nostalgia. The fact that his coworker takes notice and seems entertained is cute and pairs well with the previous device. The situation humorously shows that even adults sometimes crave attention while inspiring thoughts concerning the differences in social exchanges between early years and adulthood.
The Neighbors Might Want to Consider Doing Some Yard Work
Publication Date: Dec. 6, 1991
Most areas have one. The neighbor with a random assortment of trash, furniture, and car parts scattered across their lawn. This strange fact is also true in The Far Side, although it has a Larson twist. He takes the gag a step further by revealing that in his world, the distasteful practice has a deeply rooted origin that traces back to prehistoric hominids.
Of course, the cave people are depicted with mammoth remains strewn about instead of modern-day litter. The skeletons have obviously been there for a while, as a few are buried in the dirt. This detail supports the idea that yards like this remain unchanged for a long time. The art reinforces the gag well, but readers are left with one crucial question. Where did they get the bottles?
Evolution of Hominids in The Far Side
Publication Date: Feb. 26, 1988
Examining the process of evolution is always interesting. It is also amusing to see the people within The Far Side. A diagram of four skeletons shows the progression of humanity’s growth, specifically in the ability to use tools. Struggling to survive, ancestors in The Far Side learned to use a club. Next, a simple spear was created to improve hunting drastically. Finally, the ultimate tools were introduced. Jazz instruments.
The comedy of the strip is more complex than it appears at first glance. The key to its effectiveness is the running “tool” theme and the attention drawn by the artistic style of the items. Because the build involves tools and the concept of hunting, the final depiction creates a connection between these ideas and the appeal of jazz music, resulting in a humorous visualization for the reader.
Fossils Can Be Entertaining Too
Publication Date: June 30, 1982
Strange things tend to happen in the dinosaur museums of The Far Side. It is no surprise, as employees would likely get bored occasionally. One such occurrence presents a layered and amusing joke. While having some fun riding a fossil, there seems to be a disagreement regarding who will take the next turn. The illustrated situation, dialogue, and portrayed emotion complement each other well and inspire laughter.
The event provides humor through unexpected behavior. The diction employed supports the strip’s intention with words like “facetious” and effectively explains the man’s grievance. Larson’s artistic style expresses to the reader the joy experienced by the man riding the fossil and the feelings of the one speaking. The seamless combination of these elements results in a well-layered and humorous gag.
Patience Isn't Always a Virtue
Publication Date: March 28, 1987
Patience is a virtue. This is another proverbial phrase that Larson flips on its head in The Far Side comics. With a strip focused on fishing, he shows that while the saying typically holds true, there are exceptions. A fact that the depicted fisherman may regret discovering. Especially if he has the same luck as those around him. His skeletal companions are unliving proof that sometimes it pays to show a little impatience.
The minor details found in the comic support the presented theme. For example, the two leg bones of the lower left skeleton being detached point to the passage of time. While the slouched skeleton on the right is disturbing, the one on the left draws the man’s concern. Rightfully so, as it appears to be still fishing. These exceptionally crafted details and the skeletons' importance land this entry in the middle of the pack.
There's a Good Reason Why Signs Are Posted in Museums
Publication Date: Oct. 20, 1984
When a sign is posted stating, “Do not touch,” most people listen. An amusing installment of The Far Side shows precisely why museums place such warnings at regular intervals. When the visitor depicted doesn’t heed the constraint, the consequences reveal the fragility of exhibits and the necessity of not touching them. The man’s grin also shows how funny the situation can be.
While the guilty party might be highly entertained, the museum staff will likely feel the opposite. Larson does an excellent job illustrating the disaster caused by the visitor’s actions. Not a single bone is left properly attached, and many have been broken. The intended response is that of humor and empathy, both for the staff and other occupants. The reader is also left to ponder how anyone will get through the back door.
The True Weakness of Houdini is Revealed
Publication Date: March 8, 1991
The Far Side’s take on “Houdini’s Final Undoing” is one of the most humorous strips in the series featuring skeletons. Or, in this case, one specific skeleton. Unfortunately for the Houdini of Larson’s universe, he was left baffled by the infamous finger trap. Unable to escape, he withered away in a corner of his home. The famous illusionist’s illustrious career ends abruptly and surprisingly in this slightly morbid comic.
Once again, Larson’s work is seemingly simple yet incredibly detailed. The placement of the skeleton raises questions. His expression, furrowed brow, and lack of any other object in the scene suggest he was entirely focused on his predicament. This detail also helps readers place sole attention on the figure and box with clear text, which aids in an immediate understanding of the joke presented.
Car Crashes Are Always So Confusing
Publication Date: Oct. 12, 1994
Two skeleton families involved in a car accident prove an amusing, if not confusing, situation. As in real life, both drivers are visibly upset and respond with unkind words. In typical Larson fashion, the scene is well-illustrated and ripe with comedy. Also, in a similar style, the strip has multiple layers that support the humor and add to the value of deeper exploration.
With two skeletons spewing puns, the primary joke is apparent. However, there are additional amusing details within the comic. For example, the position of the streetlight makes it difficult to tell who might be at fault. The driver’s location in each vehicle also indicates that the driver in red has an American model while the one in green is in a European-made car. The questions these details inspire add to the confusion and humor of the strip.
The Cub Scouts Keep Disappearing
Publication Date: April 11, 1980
As mentioned previously, strange things tend to happen in the dinosaur museums of The Far Side world. These weird occurrences aren’t always the result of employee or visitor behavior. Sometimes, the exhibits themselves act mysteriously. This is the case when two employees find Cub Scout clothing in front of a fearsome-looking creature. To deepen the mystery, they further note this isn’t the first time.
On par with reader expectations, the minor details in the comic help tell the story. Every item in the scene has a specific purpose. Like a jigsaw puzzle, connecting these details reveals a larger picture. The sinister look of the background display, the suspect's fearsome teeth, and the fact that the creepy skeletal dinosaur has eyes all point to a single concept. The exceptional use of small details in storytelling and the effectiveness of the joke net this entry the top spot.
