Comic book writer Mark Waid explains the problem with an “edgy” characterization of Superman, citing the core values of the DC mascot, including his “kindness, empathy, and compassion,” which largely conflict with Batman‘s crimefighting mentality.
As Waid’s new series World’s Finest with artist Dan Mora begins, it’s the perfect time for the Dark Knight and the Man of Steel’s differences to be explored. In his comic book history, Batman has often been depicted as one of the darker heroes within the DC Universe, while Superman has upheld certain beliefs which have made him an inspirational figure. When the two heroes have teamed up, they tend to clash as their ideologies are in conflict. However, their ultimate shared goal for justice unites them in the never-ending battle. During the times in which Superman is made a darker character, their dynamic can feel redundant. At times in The New 52, Superman’s more aggressive attitude could affect his intrinsic optimism.
During a Reddit AMA on r/dccomics commemorating the release of World’s Finest #1, Mark Waid answered a fan’s question regarding Superman’s frequent dark characterization in comics. The fan by the username u/johnnynoname12 explained how the Man of Steel began to resonate later in life as a symbol of hope, despite their preference for comics with an “edge.” In response, Waid agreed about Superman’s purpose and elaborated on Joe Shuster and Jerry Siegel’s original intentions for the character:
Superman wasn’t built to be ‘edgy.’ He was built by his creators to be your guardian angel and an advocate for the weak and oppressed, and the best interpretations IMO center on the fact that he’s an aspirational figure, not one who intimidates. That’s Batman’s job. Superman needs the world’s trust in order to operate freely, and the moment people see him as a weapon instead of a man of kindness, it’s game over.
As the writer of beloved Superman stories like Superman: Birthright, and now World’s Finest which incorporates DC’s two biggest icons, Waid is a knowledgable creator on the distinction between Batman and Superman. Following in the trend of DC Comics creators who have expressed their disdain for darker depiction of Superman, Waid joins writers such as Grant Morrison who called a villainous version of Kal-El “ridiculous.” Although there’s a fine line between “edgy” and “evil,” the point stands that Superman was intended to be a symbol of hope. While inverted Supermen can occasionally be a fun deconstruction of the character with the right creative team attached, the cliche has turned into a poor attempt at evolving the Man of Steel.
Waid and Mora’s World’s Finest already seemed like a promising depiction of its titular duo. The writer’s commentary on Superman continues to solidify his classic take on the characters, calling back to creators’ original intentions. During the AMA, he also commented on Superman’s core values which separate him from his brooding vigilante partner. In contrast to more modern iterations, Waid brings Superman back to his roots and finds what makes him special in his core essentials. World’s Finest will likely serve as a demonstration of how Batman and Superman’s differences make them a compelling team.
Source: Reddit
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