My attention was first taken by this handsome Dick Giordano cover for
Space Adventures #7 from 1953. This is an attractive bit of artwork featuring an intriguing couple clearly trying to keep their composure after a rocket crash in deep space. The way the smoke in this one filters up and seemingly through or behind the somewhat transparent lettering is very neat. This is the only time I can find where the letter to this classic logo was used in quite this way. As for what the "Transformation" is to which this story refers, check out the story for yourself.
Life in the wilds of outer space can be exceedingly interesting at times it seems. And in these modern days when ideas of gender are of great moment in the public square, classic tales like these showcase that these issues have been with us for generations and are not the creation of some new folk seeking to overthrow the system.
NOTE: This is a Dojo Revised Classic Post.
Rip Off
Ursula Le Guin's novel "The Left Hand Of Darkness" dealt with the subject of gender fluidity way back in 1969 but, as you say, some people think it's a new thing created by liberals to overthrow traditional family values blah, blah.
ReplyDeleteI found and read LeGuin's "Left Hand of Darkness" soon after I arrived at college for my Freshman year. Her novels challenged a great many of the standard expectations of the "traditional family" which has always been more myth than fact.
DeleteAlso have a look at "Transformation Complete" from Weird Science # 19 (1951).
ReplyDeleteSorry, meant to type WS # 10.
DeleteThanks for the tip.
DeleteGold Key always seemed to be looked down upon as a second tier comics line to the more "sophisticated" Marvel and DC readers, but when you look back they had a solid line of really fine books. Maybe the art wasn't always as dynamic or picturesque, but they seemed to me to usually have entertaining stories. After all, that's what comics are all about, aren't they?
ReplyDeleteI think you meant Charlton instead of Gold Key, but I agree otherwise. Charlton is a love of mine as can well be seen by this very blog.
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