10 Relatable Far Side Comics for Outcasts and Loners

The Far Side has gained a reputation for its distinctive and unconventional humor that resonates with those who often feel like outsiders. Over the years, Gary Larson has skillfully illustrated various types of loners, misfits, and unconventional characters—making them relatable to readers who regard themselves as different from the mainstream.

This collection highlights some of the most memorable cartoons from The Far Side, showcasing characters who distinctly do not fit in, defy societal norms, or find themselves in absurd situations, including those that literally fall apart. The magic of The Far Side lies not just in its ability to resonate with readers but also in its knack for surprising them—an aspect beautifully captured in these panels.

10 Far Side Fans Know What It’s Like To Be Completely Out Of Sync With Everyone Around Them

First Published: November 13, 1981

Far Side, November 13, 1981, an orchestra conductor is horrified to hear a banjo amid his instruments

This particular cartoon featuring a banjo player standing out in a classical orchestra serves as a powerful metaphor. The depiction of a man energetically plucking his banjo while an orchestra plays underscores Larson’s own experience as an artist diverging from his contemporaries. Readers who know what it means to feel out of sync with their peers often find an echo of their own experiences in this humorous jab.

As a widely-syndicated comic, The Far Side appealed to diverse audiences, with fans often gravitating toward its relatable nuances as much as its humor.

9 Gary Larson Illustrates How It Feels For Some Introverts To Try To Socialize

First Published: April 3, 1982

Far Side, April 3, 1982, clown sits in a restaurant looking innocent after sticking suction cup to another patron's head

At first glance, this cartoon featuring a clown appears to be a light-hearted gag. However, the clown’s innocent demeanor alongside his awkward action of placing a suction-cup dart on a bald patron’s head has profound implications. This comic resonates particularly with those who struggle in social situations. Gary Larson encapsulates the often uncomfortable feeling of being an awkward misfit when attempting social interaction.

8 The Far Side Highlights How Intimidating The Dating Game Can Be

First Published: December 9, 1982

Far Side, December 9, 1982, a small man is intimidated by a normal sized woman at the bar

In this cartoon, Gary Larson employs the motif of miniature characters to creatively portray awkward interpersonal dynamics. Here, a tiny man grapples with the anxiety of approaching a woman at a bar, capturing the typical nervousness many experience in romantic pursuits. This piece perfectly illustrates how dating can feel intimidating, particularly for those who may lack self-confidence.

7 A Far Side Ode To Anyone Who Has Struggled With The Basics

First Published: April 7, 1983

Far Side, April 7, 1983, a man wakes up to a note that says 'first pants, then shoes'

This particular strip resonates with anyone who has faced life’s simplest tasks with difficulty. While Larson may not have intended this comic to delve deeply into such themes, it naturally elevates the reader experience and reveals how humor can transcend original intentions.

6 Everyone Feels Like They’re Falling Apart Sometimes, Especially On The Far Side

First Published: August 29, 1984

Far Side, August 29, 1984, a man wakes up to find his big tone has 'gone to market'

The cartoon’s character portrays a sense of disheveled resignation rather than fright, forming a relatable tribute for those who sometimes struggle to feel whole. This resonates poignantly with anyone grappling with feelings of incompletion.

5 Gary Larson Makes The Case For True Love, Far Side Style

First Published: August 30, 1984

Far Side, August 30, 1984, an intentionally goofy-looking man walks into a room full of women, one of whom is attracted to him

While Gary Larson is recognized for his darker humor, he occasionally shares a glimpse of optimism. This cartoon, humorously named “someone for everyone,”features a whimsically unattractive man entering a room of women, with most pondering his entrance—except for one with heart eyes. This playful depiction encourages readers feeling disheartened about finding love to keep trying.

4 The Far Side Evokes What It Feels Like When A Friend Group Becomes History

First Published: September 6, 1984

Far Side, September 6, 1984, a dinosaur's friends have all gone extinct

In this poignant comic, a young dinosaur seeks friends for a game of baseball, only to discover that all of them have “gone extinct.”This darkly humorous twist strikes a relatable chord for anyone who has felt left behind as friends move away or choose different paths in life, encapsulating the feeling of isolation.

3 The Far Side Exposes The Downside To Being The Funny One In The Group

First Published: March 15, 1985

Far Side, March 15, 1985, Brian the clown worries that his friends only like him for his jokes

In this iconic comic, named Brian by the artist, he contemplates whether his friends value him for his ideas or merely as comic relief, while looking forlorn in a packed car. This sentiment resonates with anyone who has ever filled the “class clown”role, questioning whether their humor is all they bring to the ensemble.

2 A Far Side Cartoon For Anyone Who Feels Like Their Sense Of Humor Goes Unappreciated

First Published: November 13, 1987

Far Side, November 13, 1987, a bear ties a dead hunter to his body and does an impression

This unique cartoon features a bear humorously impersonating a hunter, hoping to elicit laughs from his fellow bears. The caption notes that “Bernie’s sense of humor was seldom appreciated,”resonating with many who feel their comedic efforts often go unnoticed. It represents the struggle faced by those whose humor may not land with every crowd.

1 The Far Side Reminds Readers That Rejection Is A Part Of Life

First Published: November 9, 1993

Far Side, November 9, 1993, a man with a fork is thrown out of a spoon band

The topic of rejection is universally relatable, especially for those who feel like social outsiders. This Far Side panel delivers a poignant yet humorous take on rejection, effectively encapsulating the very real experiences many face.

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