Politically, Fashionably, and Aerodynamically Incorrect: The First Outland Collection
Remember the ’80s? Big hair, shoulder pads, and a healthy dose of social commentary wrapped in a comic strip? Well, Berkeley Breathed’s Politically, Fashionably, and Aerodynamically Incorrect: The First Outland Collection throws you right back into that era. This collection, first published in 1987, compiles the early strips of Breathed’s “Outland,” the successor to the iconic “Bloom County,” offering a hilarious and insightful glimpse into the zeitgeist of the time.
A Blast from the Past: Revisiting “Outland”
“Outland,” for those uninitiated, featured a cast of quirky characters including Opus the Penguin, Bill the Cat, and Ronald-Ann Smith. Breathed’s strip tackled a broad range of topics, from environmental concerns and political satire to pop culture and the absurdity of everyday life. Politically, Fashionably, and Aerodynamically Incorrect captures the essence of the strip’s early days, showcasing Breathed’s distinctive wit and artistic style.
The book aimed to bring together the best of “Outland”’s initial run, giving fans a single volume to revisit their favorite moments.
Structure and Style: A Collection of Quirks
The book is structured chronologically, presenting the strips as they originally appeared. This allows readers to experience the evolution of Breathed’s humor and artistic technique. One of the book’s strengths lies in Breathed’s masterful use of satire. He deftly skewers the political and social landscape of the ’80s, offering a humorous yet poignant commentary on the issues of the day. His sharp wit and insightful observations are as relevant today as they were back then.
The whimsical artwork further enhances the reading experience. Breathed’s characters are expressive and memorable, their antics brought to life with a unique blend of charm and absurdity. However, the chronological presentation could also be considered a slight weakness. While it preserves the original context of the strips, it also means that the quality of the humor can fluctuate. Some strips haven’t aged as well as others, showing their era more conspicuously.
Content and Commentary: A Trip Down Memory Lane
Politically, Fashionably, and Aerodynamically Incorrect: The First Outland Collection offers a delightful, often laugh-out-loud journey through the absurdities of the 1980s. Opus, the lovable and perpetually confused penguin, navigates the complexities of human society, encountering a cast of memorable characters along the way. Bill the Cat, the epitome of feline indifference, adds a surreal touch to the proceedings. Meanwhile, Ronald-Ann Smith offers a youthful perspective on the world.
Breathed’s strip tackled themes ranging from environmentalism to the Cold War, all filtered through his distinctive comedic lens. He wasn’t afraid to poke fun at sacred cows, and his irreverent humor resonated with readers who appreciated his willingness to push boundaries. The book doesn’t shy away from the social and political anxieties of its time, but it does so with a light touch, offering commentary rather than preaching. You can truly sense the pulse of a decade captured within these panels.
Beyond the Laughs: The Book’s Deeper Impact
Politically, Fashionably, and Aerodynamically Incorrect isn’t just a collection of funny comic strips; it’s a time capsule of the ’80s. It’s interesting to see how certain themes continue to be relevant, even today. Reading Politically, Fashionably, and Aerodynamically Incorrect today provides a unique perspective on how these issues were perceived and discussed at the time. It acts as a reminder of how humor can be a powerful tool for social commentary.
Revisiting the Penguin: A Timeless Appeal?
While Breathed’s humor is deeply rooted in the 1980s, its underlying themes of human nature, societal quirks, and political foibles continue to resonate today. While the specific references may elicit nostalgic chuckles for those who lived through the era, the core humor, the characters’ interactions, and the social commentary remain surprisingly enduring.
Breathed’s visual storytelling and the depth he gives his characters, especially Opus, are a masterclass in how to balance absurdity and poignancy. This is clear in this early work as the foundation of a beloved comic strip character is laid.
The Verdict: A Must-Have for Fans and Newcomers Alike
Politically, Fashionably, and Aerodynamically Incorrect: The First Outland Collection is a must-have for fans of “Bloom County” and “Outland.” It’s a chance to revisit some of the most iconic and entertaining moments of the series. For those unfamiliar with Breathed’s work, it’s an excellent introduction to his unique brand of humor and social commentary.
For a taste of this type of nostalgic humor, check out GoComics’s collection of Bloom County [https://www.gocomics.com/bloom-county].
This collection is sure to provide hours of laughter and reflection on the state of society and politics across the decades. It’s a fascinating reminder that even in the most absurd of times, humor can be a powerful force for change.
Who Should Read “Politically, Fashionably, and Aerodynamically Incorrect”?
This collection is a must-read for fans of political satire, social commentary, and witty humor. It’s also highly recommended for those seeking a nostalgic trip back to the 1980s, or anyone interested in exploring the evolution of comic strip art.
Whether you’re a long-time fan of Breathed’s work or a curious newcomer, Politically, Fashionably, and Aerodynamically Incorrect: The First Outland Collection is sure to leave you entertained and pondering. It’s a testament to the power of humor to capture the spirit of an era and offer insights into the human condition. So, grab a copy, settle in, and prepare for a hilarious and thought-provoking journey back to the days of big hair, questionable fashion choices, and the birth of an iconic penguin.
The Enduring Legacy of “Politically, Fashionably, and Aerodynamically Incorrect”
Politically, Fashionably, and Aerodynamically Incorrect stands as a testament to Breathed’s talent and his ability to use humor to address complex issues. The collection is more than just a compilation of comic strips; it’s a snapshot of a particular moment in time, captured with wit, intelligence, and a healthy dose of absurdity. Even after all these years, the strips in Politically, Fashionably, and Aerodynamically Incorrect remain fresh, insightful, and laugh-out-loud funny.
They offer a unique perspective on the ’80s and remind us that humor can be a powerful tool to dissect the absurdities, and explore complexities in ways other approaches can only dream to achieve.
Rediscovering the Charm of “Politically, Fashionably, and Aerodynamically Incorrect”
In a world often saturated with negativity, Politically, Fashionably, and Aerodynamically Incorrect: The First Outland Collection offers a welcome respite. It’s a reminder that humor can be a powerful antidote to the stresses of daily life, and that even in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges, it’s important to find a reason to laugh. And, sometimes, the laughter of the past can offer context and even a soothing balm to the wounds of the present and guidance toward facing the future.
The book doesn’t just document history. It invites its reader to participate by interpreting events long past, using Breathed’s humor as a starting point for contemplation. In this way, Politically, Fashionably, and Aerodynamically Incorrect becomes less of a historical record, more a guide for examining our times.
