What Makes the Best Single-Paneled Comic?

When it comes to humor, a single-paneled comic strip has the ability to convey a multitude of ideas and emotions in a single frame. Personal favorites often stand out not just for their clever punchlines, but also for the subtlety and cleverness of their setup. One of the most iconic and timeless examples is the work of Gary Larson, The Far Side.

Setting the Scene: Gary Larson's The Far Side

From 1979 to 1995, Larson's The Far Side was a masterpiece of visual humor. Larson was a maestro of the single-panel comic, known for his ability to weave intricate and often surreal situations out of simple imagery. What makes Larson's comics especially noteworthy is their ability to blend absurdity with relatable human observations, creating humorous and unexpected scenarios that continue to resonate with readers.

Key Examples of Larson's Linguistic Genius

One of my favorite Far Side comics features a man sitting in a chair reading a newspaper. The caption reads: "The newspaper was just reading him." This clever play on words and the image of a person so engrossed in a newspaper that it is considering him as a subject is a testament to Larson's penchant for unexpected twists.

Another must-see comic from Larson shows a cow standing in a field staring at a sign that reads: "No Visitors, except the attendants of animals who are sick or injured." It's a simple setup, but the caption: "The cows were all out exercising." perfectly captures the absurd humor that Larson became famous for.

The Uniqueness of Larson's Work

Larson was a true master of the single-panel comic, known for his ability to blend dark and twisted humor with clever and thought-provoking concepts. His comics often served as a gateway to explore deeper themes, making them both funny and intellectually stimulating. For example, one version of the caveman and dog roast features a humorous double entendre that only a true master like Larson could create.

Beyond The Far Side

While Gary Larson is undoubtedly a cornerstone of single-paneled comics, there are numerous other talented cartoonists who have also left lasting legacies. Here are a few more examples that I particularly enjoy:

Calvin and Hobbes: Calvin and Hobbes by Bill Watterson is a perennial favorite for its childlike wonder and philosophical musings. One memorable comic shows a pink elephant in a parade, with the caption: "Pity the poor pink elephant. None of the other elephants will let him into their parade." Phiz: Phiz by Carl Buell is another addition to this list, with a humorously layered setup that often blurs the line between fantasy and reality. In one comic, a man standing on a cliff shouts: "I was 100 feet away... if I had a rifle." Sign Orison: Sign Orison's quirky humor and poignant observations often strike a chord. A classic example shows a cat sitting on a chair, smiling, with the caption: "You can do anything in zero-g."

The Enduring Magic of Single-Paneled Comics

The best single-paneled comic is the one that elicits the greatest amount of laughter. Whether you gravitate towards the dark and twisted humor of Larson, the whimsical observations of Watterson, or the poignant moments in Buell's work, these cartoons have the power to capture the essence of humor and storytelling in a single frame. So, the next time you find yourself in need of a quick chuckle, dive into the world of single-paneled comics and find your new favorite.

Update Note: This article was updated for improved content and structure on December 1, 2023.