Harley Quinn’s Latest Release: A Missed Opportunity That’s a Decade Overdue

Warning: Spoilers for Harley Quinn (2021) #46 ahead!

Since her separation from the Joker, Harley Quinn has firmly established herself as a rebellious icon. This anti-establishment attitude has undeniably endeared her to fans; however, a rebellion without purpose risks rendering her character superficial. Unfortunately, I believe that Harley’s recent mission to halt the gentrification of Gotham’s struggling Throatcutter Hill borders on this problematic portrayal.

In her latest endeavor, Harley is tasked with obstructing the influx of online delivery vehicles into Throatcutter Hill. The motivation behind this mission is to safeguard local businesses, a cause to which Harley ultimately pledges her support.

Harley Quinn #46 cover, exorting readers to 'buy this comic or the monkey dies'

While Harley’s adventure concludes with her saving the day, I found the depiction of inflation and e-commerce as mere byproducts of classism to be somewhat troubling, rather than a reflection of our current socioeconomic climate.

Harley Quinn: Championing The “Little Guy”– But Does She Really Know Who That Is?

In Harley Quinn #46, the portrayal of those who rely on online deliveries is rather one-dimensional, depicting them as affluent urbanites preferring convenience over local shopping. This reductive perspective often leans on stereotypes, overlooking the diverse realities of consumers who simply seek accessibility, much like everyday individuals striving for basic needs. The acronym assigned to the newly gentrified Throatcutter Hill, “NoWeGoSoE,”somewhat humorously resembles “bourgeoisie,”further implying a lack of depth to the character’s critique.

As someone with a background in publishing, I recognize the substantial impact of online retail on local businesses. For instance, did you know that Amazon famously sells books at a loss? Their strategy drives customers towards higher-margin products. Indeed, online shopping poses a significant threat to the community-oriented establishments Harley seeks to defend. However, the notion that it’s strictly online versus brick-and-mortar is an outdated dichotomy.

Harley’s Battle: A Narrative Stuck In The Past

Navigating Harley Quinn’s Relevance as a “Rebel”Figure

Harley Quinn Holiday Special #1 main cover art feature

Moreover, many independent shops also rely on delivery services to survive, especially during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. By targeting delivery companies—often the intermediary players in the retail landscape—Harley may actually inflict greater harm on those she intends to help rather than on the oppressive forces of capitalism she aims to combat.

While it’s convenient to decry “the wealthy,”such a simplistic narrative fails to resonate in today’s multifaceted world. The issues Harley confronts in this latest issue of Harley Quinn seem rather antiquated; for example, her outrage over a fourteen-dollar smoothie feels misplaced amidst today’s inflation rates. Local businesses have increasingly integrated online strategies into their model, making Harley’s opposition feel out of touch with the reality of modern commerce.

My Apologies, But “Harley Quinn”Feels Like It’s Stagnating

DC’s Uncertainty in Managing Their Iconic Clown

Cover B Amanda Conner Card Stock Variant Harley Quinn Fartacular Silent Butt Deadly #1 Feature

This misalignment signals a significant challenge for Harley Quinn’s character, hinting that DC may be struggling to navigate her narrative in today’s landscape. For Harley to maintain relevance, especially as a voice for the marginalized, she must evolve beyond outdated arguments.

I genuinely appreciate the character of Harley Quinn and her capacity to embody the quirks and struggles often faced by those in historic neighborhoods like Throatcutter Hill. Acknowledging the importance of independent businesses and the ongoing crisis of gentrification is crucial. However, if Harley’s message continues to be reduced to overly simplistic caricatures, it will risk alienating contemporary audiences. To remain meaningful and impactful, Harley Quinn must adapt to today’s complexities—lest her narrative become even more cartoonish in a universe already populated by characters with superpowers.

Harley Quinn (2021) #42 is currently available from DC Comics.

Source & Images