Transcend Reality… These were the words Jack Kirby, legendary comic book artist/creator/writer, used to describe comic books. A librarian had asked him if he thought comics mirrored reality. His answer was…No!… They transcend reality. The librarian then went on to say that if only they mirrored reality, then others could begin to understand it(reality). Kirby then went on to explain to her that if comics mirrored reality they would get it all backward. Kirby then explained that only when comics transcend reality will you actually have a good shot at figuring it out!
I came across this wonderful insight while reading Kirby King of Comics by Mark Evanier. These comments are prophetic in explaining many of the reasons that society has veered off in the wrong direction morally. Many television shows, books, movies, and other entertainment forms have focused their energies on “keeping it real”. Movies tend to focus on the negative aspects of society and does it in a gratuitously graphic and profane way. Television focuses on the violence and profanity that permeates society in an effort to “keep it real”. Music caters to the lowest common denominator with its use of excessive profanity and sexuality in an effort to “keep it real”. In many ways this attitude creates its own reality in society as it desensitizes societies morals. Slowly, what was unacceptable becomes acceptable. When the entertainment industries attempt to mirror reality, they get everything backwards.
If the entertainment industry would focus its efforts on “transcending reality”, then maybe… just maybe… with the Grace of God, society can achieve its true potential for understanding itself and making society a better place for all. “Keeping it real” lowers the potential for mankind to proclaim the Glory of God!
Currently I am working on a reply to an anti catholic apologist regarding an email he sent me. I may post my responses on the blog in the coming days.
