Batman by Dave Taylor (via awyeahcomics)

Every now and then, someone who seems otherwise intelligent launches into a scripted rant about how Batman is just a rich guy who punches criminals in the face for kicks. Oh, how clever they hope to appear in their recitation of others’ thoughtless criticisms of a boy who selflessly devoted himself to protecting others from the sort of horror that befell his parents.

I do know that it’s a bit silly to think about Batman as much as I have (and will). But I also know that stories about him saved my life when I was a boy, and have continued to inspire me to keep trying my best, no matter what, through difficult circumstances of both chance and choice.

You’re right to say they’re just stories! Silly stories, packed to the brim with villains and friends, capes and masks, and whenever possible, underwear worn over tights. Batman works in any tone, any style, any era, helping anyone. (By the way, try and think of a character there have been more stories told about than Batman or Superman and report back to me.)

Anyway. All I mean to say is that this gorgeous, fluid rendering by Dave Taylor just reminded me how powerful it is to have a hero for children, born of tragedy, wrapped in darkness, as a symbol of good. 

People who hate on a guy like that belong in an asylum.