In the above hilarious strip we see Calvin happily driving nails into the coffee table. When he gets a negative reaction from his mom, we see that he stops to think about it before coming up with an inconclusive conclusion. In the middle panel which the Astrix takes place Calvin is signifying a change in thought process.
What happens in Calvin's mind is a manifestation of Jean-Paul Sartre's claim of original choice, which consists of; the 'original choice' of a fundamental project is said to be 'absurd', since choices are normally made for reasons, this choice lies beyond reason because all reasons for choice are supposed to be grounded...
The Astrix is a progression of time where Calvin tries to rationalize his actions. He then realizes, that this action is beyond reason, which is what I truly believe defines what fun is to Calvin, and other eight year olds. He ultimately just settles that it's fun for the sake of fun, (without calculating any repercussion to this action.)
The notion of the absurd also explains to Calvin's predilection towards Calvinball...
let's leave that for another entry though.
Jaded reader, indeed. The asterisk is *not* a 'progression of time'. That is nonsense.
ReplyDeleteI don't think you get this strip... I think the asterix is just showing he's thinking 'I'm obviously banging nails into the table, why doesn't she get that?'I don't think he's trying to rationalise his actions or any of that stuff.
ReplyDeleteSometimes a cartoon is just a cartoon, its meant to be funny.