Comments on: Comics in Context #45: A Spider-Man State of Mind http://asitecalledfred.com/2004/07/16/comics-in-context-45-a-spider-man-state-of-mind/ Wed, 15 Oct 2008 19:03:17 +0000 hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 By: Rick B. http://asitecalledfred.com/2004/07/16/comics-in-context-45-a-spider-man-state-of-mind/comment-page-1/#comment-9879 Wed, 15 Oct 2008 19:03:17 +0000 http://www.quickstopentertainment.com/2004/07/16/comics-in-context-45-a-spider-man-state-of-mind/#comment-9879 In addition to Amazing Spider-Man #50, I think there is another Lee-Ditko tale that fits well, in terms of both theme and plot, with Spider-Man 2, and that is Amazing Spider-Man Annual #1. Not only is this the first appearance of the Sinister Six, but Spidey begins the story stressed by the problems his alter ego is causing him, and still wracked by grief over Uncle Ben. Soon afterwards his powers quit working, and Peter winds up feeling relieved that he’ll be able to live a normal life. Fortunately for the readers though, shortly after that, Betty Brant and Aunt May are kidnapped by Electro and Sandman, along with a demand that you-know-who must show up at a specified location if he wants them. Peter then bravely sets off after them, as Spider-Man but still without powers. In the course of the ensuing battle, his powers miraculously return. Afterwards he realizes that he never really lost them at all. We are told it was “psychosomatic”. Once again, when Peter accepts rather than rejects his responsbility, he is able to move forward. So, interesting to note Lee dealt very specifically with this theme in young Pete’s life more than once.

For a non-superhero look at accepting responsibility as a part of adulthood, my favorite comics work is Seth’s It’s a Good Life if You Don’t Weaken, a beautiful, bittersweet and richly atmospheric story hung around the frame of investigating the life of an obscure cartoonist.

As always, thanks for a thoughtful, and thought-provoking, column –
Rick B.

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