DC Comics Reveals Absolute Superman’s Greatest Power Is Not Related to Combat

Warning: Spoilers for Absolute Superman #3

Superman is well-known for his array of extraordinary Kryptonian abilities, which include heat vision, invulnerability, and super-strength. Throughout his history, these powers have enabled him to save countless lives. Yet, there exists a less obvious skill that recently took center stage in the narrative of his Absolute Universe variant—an ability that allows Superman to make an impact off the battlefield, advocating for people through the written word.

In the newly released Absolute Superman #3, created by Jason Aaron and illustrated by Rafa Sandoval, the young Kal-El faces challenges in his academic pursuits. Choosing to write his assignments himself instead of relying on a mechanical assistant, he tells his concerned parents, “My words make me happy. Theirs are just… words.”

Kal's parents find out he's been doing his own writing and enjoying it

Encouraged by his parents to pursue this newfound passion, Kal El begins to harness his writing for a greater cause. His commitment to writing emerges as a critical tool that he later utilizes to aid the inhabitants of Krypton.

Using Journalism to Enact Change on Krypton

Kal-El: A Writer Before Becoming Superman

While Superman’s superhuman strength and combat skills are essential, he recognizes that subtle, behind-the-scenes influences often present greater challenges. Unlike the brazen opponents he faces, those wielding covert power cannot always be defeated through direct confrontation. In this context, Kal-El’s alter ego, Clark Kent, embodies a journalist at the Daily Planet—a role through which he fosters change in his community. A compelling example can be found in Wonder Woman #16, where Clark utilizes investigative skills to unearth the villainous actions of the Sovereign. In this way, even without assuming his Clark Kent persona, Absolute Superman demonstrates that he can address systemic issues by wielding the power of his pen.

Rescuing Kryptonians: The Pen is Mightier than the Sword

Kal-El’s Words: His True Superpower

Jor-El discovers the Kryptonian elite are hiding the planet's destruction

Despite the ruling class’s attempts to suppress Kal-El’s story, he finds innovative methods to disseminate crucial information about Krypton’s alarming situation. Infiltrating a Kandorian law office reveals that elites are concealing the planet’s deteriorating state to monopolize escape resources, leaving the vulnerable population at risk. By uploading this information to the Luminarium, he ensures that the citizens of Krypton are aware of their planet’s dire fate, allowing them the chance to escape. Superman may possess incredible physical powers, but it is his prowess in investigative journalism that stands out as his most impactful ability.

Absolute Superman #3 is currently available from DC Comics.

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