Date: Tue, 19 Nov 2002 18:20:50 -0800
From: DTPHD
To: Metropolis Mailbag
In another story, he and Robin decide to show Superman a scenario of what
might have happened had Krypton not exploded. Unfortunately, the scenario
shows that Superman's parents would still have died and that he would still
have become an orphan. (That story, the title of which I've forgotten, is
also from the Wayne Boring era and is reprinted in
"The Greatest Superman
Stories Ever Told.")
Now I am aware that Batman, even in the 1950s, was haunted by the memory
of
his parents' murders, and that in Superman (another orphan--orphaned twice
as
a matter of fact) Batman found a kindred spirit. But does the Caped Crusader
have to strike fear and anguish into his supposed good friend on happy
occasions like this? And why does Superman seem to enjoy it in the "Fort
Superman" story? He has his arm around Batman as though this was the greatest
gift he could have received. He could have spent it in a healthier way by
inviting Batman, Lois, Jimmy, Perry, etc. over to the Fortress for an
anniversary commemoration. (oh, I forgot, a Clark Kent robot would have had
to appear as well.)
It's a weird story considering the time in which it was written. Behind the
smiles of the heroes, they have a strange sense of humor.
(I won't mention the strangeness of Batman going through a bunch of stores
in full costume looking for a gift. "Can I help you sir?" "Yes, I'm looking
for a gift for Superman." "Well, what does he like?" "He likes to be scared
out of his wits. He doesn't get enough adventure in his life..." )
It's funny, in a strange way, and I admit that I still don't understand the
logic of that story. But, if it made Superman happy on his 20th anniversary
of publication, I guess that's good enough for him.
Durahn Taylor
(P.S., I'd like to see what Superman got Batman on his 20th anniversary the
following year...)
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