August always addles my brain. Thank God it’s over. It’s just too damn hot and getting even hotter because you know why. But my brain-boggling feels even worse this year: climate change, the economy, politics, and the pandemic are combining with my inborn neuroticism to drive me Bonkers. To make matters worse, I can’t rely…
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Recent Posts
Anatomy of a Cartoon: Politics
Cartoon critics Phil Witte and Rex Hesner look behind gags to debate what makes a cartoon tick. This week our intrepid critics take a look at the political season. The political season is upon us. Unleash the cartoons! Viewers of the recent Democratic primary debates were struck by the onstage antics of the candidates. Alternately…
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“Campsite Comic” Caption Contest Commentary with Lawrence Wood
The campers in Benjamin Schwartz’s cartoon are in their sleeping bags. They’ve been awakened by a bear, who’s performing a stand-up routine just outside their tent. The male camper is reaching into his backpack for his cellphone, and his girlfriend is saying something to him. I first made references to killing and dying, words that…
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Anatomy of a Cartoon: Cabin Fever
Cartoon critics Phil Witte and Rex Hesner look behind the gags to debate what makes a cartoon tick. This week our intrepid critics take a look at cabin fever. “Home, Sweet Home” has taken on new meaning during the pandemic. Introverts are quietly exulting while their extroverted counterparts are climbing the walls. Relationships are being…
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What’s the Point? Cartoon Humor and Deeper Meaning
Here’s a funny cartoon by Bruce Eric Kaplan: BUY THIS CARTOON For a cartoon to be funny is essential, but for me, a great cartoon can also do more. It can present complicated ideas or uncomfortable truths in a way that people actually enjoy. Don’t get me wrong, funny for funny’s sake — like art…
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