The early years of a long-running comic strip often reveal a different character than its later, more familiar form. This evolution is evident in the works of Bill Watterson, particularly in the foundational stories of his iconic comic, Calvin and Hobbes.
While later iterations of Calvin and Hobbes, especially after Watterson's 1991 sabbatical, saw changes in format and artistic ambition, the strip's initial years laid the groundwork for its enduring appeal. Even as Watterson refined his art style and storytelling, the core elements of Calvin and Hobbes were present from the beginning.
Home is Where the Heart Was
A notable early storyline from the strip's history is the burglary arc. When Calvin's family returns from a wedding to find their home ransacked, Calvin's immediate concern is for his stuffed tiger, Hobbes. The story delves into the family's subsequent feelings of vulnerability, exploring the idea that a home, often perceived as a sanctuary, relies on a fragile sense of security.
Calvin's father reflects on adulthood in a way that resonates deeply, suggesting that even the most confident individuals are often navigating life's challenges with a degree of improvisation. This poignant exploration of the human condition, found within the context of a comic strip, highlights Watterson's ability to blend humor with profound observations.
Maybe This Hat Will Fix Me
Another memorable early narrative unfolded in early 1989, involving Calvin's pursuit of a propeller beanie advertised as a prize in his favorite cereal. The storyline captures a near-universal childhood experience: the inflated anticipation for a promised item that ultimately fails to meet expectations. Calvin's belief that the beanie would enable flight, while an exaggeration, mirrors the common disappointment when reality doesn't match fervent expectation.
This tale, while rooted in the consumer culture of the 1980s, speaks to the timeless experience of waiting for something—be it a toy, a game, or a media release—only for the anticipation to overshadow the eventual enjoyment. In today's world, where wait times are often measured in days rather than months, the sentiment remains remarkably relevant.
To Change the World, Start in Your Own Backyard
Perhaps one of the most prescient early storylines arrived in September 1988, when Calvin, after reading the newspaper, decides to abandon Earth for Mars with Hobbes. Their planned colonization of the red planet is cut short by an encounter with a Martian and a realization that running away from Earth's problems is not a solution.
"We ought to fix up our own planet," Calvin concludes, "before we go messing around with other people's planets." This extended narrative, spanning three weeks, served as an early counterpoint to the modern discourse surrounding planetary colonization. Watterson's 1988 commentary underscores the idea that addressing terrestrial issues should precede endeavors to explore or inhabit other worlds, a message that remains pertinent today.