MAN FROM KRYPTON:
A Closer Look at Superman
Leading writers discuss, debate and celebrate the legend of Superman in this anthology, contending that his legend is a truly American myth. Superman was an immigrant with little more than the clothes on his back and raised by simple farmers, absorbing their humble values. He always chose to do the right thing, fighting for truth, justice, and the American way and represents America at its best. The in-depth analyses of the comics, films and cartoons are at turns funny, philosophical, insightful and personal, exploring every aspect of the Superman legend.
“A History of Violence”
While other people may ponder the loftier subjects of truth and meaning, I’ve always wondered how Wolverine can bend his wrists when the claws sheath back into his hand. How can the Silver Surfer stay on his board with no noticeable traction or grip tape? Are Dr. Strange and his manservant Wong secret lovers? Why haven’t the citizens of Gotham City put two and two together about Batman and Bruce Wayne? How can Flash have any self-respect when he fights a villain named “Rainbow Raider”? If when Billy Batson grows up, he says “Shazam,” will that make him younger? And why would the noble Wonder Woman wear star-spangled undies?
I’ve also wondered how Superman could punch another person and not kill him. Forget a deeper postmodern critique of the superhero as a reconstruction of masculine language systems. I want to know how Superman doesn’t kill people when he hits them. How does he not accidentally send a fist straight through the chest of a bank robber or would-be world conqueror? He’s Superman, the strongest of the super-powered cape-wearing spandex titans. Even the phrase “more powerful than a locomotive” is an outdated understatement. From my own fanboyish research, I wager this Last Son of Krypton could do lethal damage using only his pinky finger.
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