Top 10+ Best Far Side About The Beauty (& Humor) of Nature
- A Disturbing Nature Scene Provides Dark Humor
- Mountain Regions In The Far Side Contain Popular Wildlife
- Wildlife Tours In The Far Side Are Beautiful But Dangerous
- An Insect Epiphany Proves Humorously Revealing
- Cheetahs Get Bored In The Far Side
- Hibernating Can Be Hazardous In The Far Side
- A Diligent Far Side Animal Dreams Big
- Some Friends Take Jokes Too Far
- The Far Side Presents "Hell's Chipmunks"
- A Chicken Does More Than Dream In The Far Side
A universal theme touched on by most cartoonists involves the beauty and humor found in nature. While some might choose obvious and relatable environmental parodies, Gary Larson takes a more unique approach. The Far Side comic strips that focus on the topic create comedy through unexpected means while inspiring critical thought.
The Far Side comics about nature also capture its beauty in original ways, quite unlike other strips. Larson incorporates numerous different artistic styles, each with a specific purpose. Techniques that prove crucial in the success of his material regarding nature. The best of these comics are sure to delight and inspire readers everywhere.

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A Disturbing Nature Scene Provides Dark Humor
Publication Date: April 23, 1987

Image by Gary Larson
In nature, dark and beautiful can go hand-in-hand. There is tranquility to be found in the daily routines of wild animals, including those viewed as morbid. A grim event in The Far Side supports this theory. As depicted, while mealtime for predators can be disturbing, the scenario can simultaneously be amusing and serene.
The strip’s atmosphere is reminiscent of Victorian Gothic. Larson’s use of heavy shading and exclusion of color inspires a somber yet peaceful reader response. The amount of area used for the sky creates an illusion of open space associated with the beauty of nature. Humor comes from a sound satire involving the picky behavior of children that pairs perfectly with the theme. Unfortunately, the inclusion of a suggestive hat trims the comic’s audience and holds this entry back in the rankings.
Mountain Regions In The Far Side Contain Popular Wildlife
Publication Date: July 21, 1992

Image by Gary Larson
Not all of Larson’s work in The Far Side is macabre. Many strips involve more pleasant and relatable themes available to a broad audience. One such comic reveals the beauty and humor of nature in a simple but lighthearted style. The joke and the illustration contain child-like qualities that prove key to its success. Because of these elements, even young readers can perceive the comedy.

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Larson’s gag incites laughter through the colorful visual aids and use of parody. The vivid environment effectively represents a lush area high in the mountains. A double-edged technique employed involves said mountains. The watercolor effect is positive in creating the appropriate atmosphere. However, the crayon-like appearance of the accompanying blue streaks draws attention away from the core material, bringing a downside to this otherwise exceptional comic.
Wildlife Tours In The Far Side Are Beautiful But Dangerous
Publication Date: July 13, 1987

Image by Gary Larson
Entering the habitat of predators in the wild comes with many dangers. While preparation helps, two tourists in The Far Side discover an entirely unexpected peril. One that shocks the driver to the point of being frozen in place. Although, his reaction isn’t surprising, as the event would catch anyone off guard. Queries involving the origins of the coat hanger would likely prove distracting.

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Multiple artistic elements bring the humorous nature scene to life. The tall grass, mountains, and large sky connect readers to the intended location. A wide range of colors helps each item distinguish itself within the illustration. The variety found in Larson’s presentation creates a beautiful and humorous comic about nature that won’t be forgotten anytime soon.
An Insect Epiphany Proves Humorously Revealing
Publication Date: June 4, 1988

Image by Gary Larson
Even the smallest parts of nature can reveal beauty and humor. This concept is evidenced by a group of ants in The Far Side. Atop a tall blade of grass, two daring individuals are treated with a rare sight. The ant’s statement inspires laughter by presenting a unique perspective. Questions involving awareness also promote lines of thought that impact readers long after viewing.
By leaving the background empty, readers can focus on the scene. In doing so, a theme of beauty in simplicity comes to light. Lack of content also promotes considerations of life continuing without comforts and frivolities. The gag serves a dual purpose in creating comedy and supporting the presented idea. In typical fashion, Larson uses a recognizable situation and reference to make readers smile while inspiring critical thought.
Cheetahs Get Bored In The Far Side
Publication Date: Jan. 2, 1985

Image by Gary Larson
Watching animals entertain themselves can be highly amusing. Especially when they live in The Far Side. A prime example comes from Larson’s depiction of cheetahs passing time in odd ways. With these cats’ incredible speed, who could blame them? Their comical behavior and the gorgeous surrounding environment pair well in revealing the humor and beauty of nature.

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Larson’s artistic detail in background objects helps bring life to the scene. The vast palette provides a crucial aspect of realism—a necessary technique for expressing the intended theme. The illusion of depth also adds greatly to the success of the portrayal. While the humor isn’t the best in The Far Side, the incredible illustration leaves readers in awe.
Hibernating Can Be Hazardous In The Far Side
Publication Date: June 8, 1987

Image by Gary Larson
Winter brings a bounty of visual appeal to nature. A blanket of fresh snow can make an environment look brand new. The moisture also helps with growth in the spring. An important factor for animals needing sustenance, such as bears coming out of hibernation. Unfortunately, bears in The Far Sidehave more to worry about than just a food source.
The emotional element of the bear’s reaction is expressed well by the grammar and emphasis within the text. The use of layering techniques gives a three-dimensional aspect to the illustration. The visually appealing art and humorous nature gag make this a truly memorable comic strip. Larson’s incredible stylings and the strip’s accessibility put this entry in a nice place among the rankings.
A Diligent Far Side Animal Dreams Big
Publication Date: Feb. 12, 1992

Image by Gary Larson
Being stuck at work while others play can be frustrating. The Far Side reveals this concept isn’t limited to people. The diligent animal provides outstanding humor through personification and irony. Amusement that is accompanied by one of Larson’s most beautiful images of nature. The strip showcases multiple literary and artistic devices that work in tandem to reveal the beauty and humor of nature.

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Regardless of its limited size, the text accomplishes more than one goal. The initial animal reference adds a layer of humor while the statement informs readers of the character's feelings. Larson’s wide array of colors, provision of depth, and exceptional shading effectively mimic a nature scene. An abundance of detail, as seen in the cup, grass, and mountains, helps give this entertaining comic a life of its own.
Some Friends Take Jokes Too Far
Publication Date: June 16, 1987

Image by Gary Larson
Friends can be a great source of entertainment, especially when doing a monotonous task. However, some can take practical jokes too far. Such is the case in The Far Side, when one gorilla angers another after repeating the same gag too many times. It's not all that surprising, as nobody wants to be startled while hanging from a tree.
Larson’s hilarious jungle scene entertains readers while demanding an extended viewing. The audience finding humor in the joke is possible because of the accurate visual representation. While seemingly limited in palette, the chosen hues mirror the location as intended. The resulting realism of the environment provides a sound foundation for the required personification.
The Far Side Presents "Hell's Chipmunks"
Publication Date: June 19, 1988

Image by Gary Larson
Sometimes, a simple parody can prove more important and influential than intended. An installment of The Far Side with a two-word description is just that. As a simple and aesthetically pleasing gag-a-day, this comic accomplished something far greater. The strip’s material promoted a vast amount of critical thought concerning humanity’s impact on the beauty of nature.

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In typical fashion, Larson uses his skills to paint a detailed image of nature. Unlike similar issues, this scene has a surreal quality. This technique focuses not on the scenario or a specific point but on the idea itself. A concept that inspires a line of thought and questions about the extent to which the actions of humanity have influenced its surroundings, both positive and negative.
A Chicken Does More Than Dream In The Far Side
Publication Date: June 14, 1987

Image by Gary Larson
Larson’s comedic obsession with chickens is a well-known fact. The flightless birds make numerous appearances in The Far Side comic strips. While most are rife with hilarity, none are as revealing of the humor and beauty found in nature as the strip showing a chicken dreaming. For readers, the chicken isn’t merely fantasizing. It provides an important reminder of an untouched environment's freedom and unique beauty.
The thought of a chicken dreaming of flight presents a relatable form of humor open to a broad audience. Larson’s artistic stylings paint an appropriate picture to represent the concept. His use of diagonal strokes in the dream pulls attention from the initial point of focus. Because of the contrast in tone between one and the other, readers view the material in a constant state of altered perception. The humor, beautiful illustration, and lasting impression on readers put this entry at the top of the rankings.

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The Far Side
Gary Larson's The Far Side is a single-panel comic strip renowned for its offbeat humor and unconventional take on everyday life. Featuring bizarre situations, anthropomorphic animals, and quirky characters, the strip delves into surreal and absurd scenarios that challenge typical comic norms. Often blending dark humor with insightful commentary, it explores a range of themes from science to society, making readers both laugh and ponder the absurdities of existence.