2010-08-05
Explanation
This comic plays on the idea that Superman, despite being extraordinarily powerful, would face insecurity in the bedroom. In the single panel, Superman sits shirtless on a bed as a woman walks away. He frantically shouts, "It's average! It's actually a little above average! It's not my fault everyone always has unreasonable expectations! No! Don't leave! Come on!" The caption below reads: "Fun Fact: Superman hasn't had sex in 15 years."
The joke hinges on the idea that because Superman is superhuman in every other way, any romantic partner would naturally expect him to be superhuman in that department as well. When confronted with the reality that some aspects of him are merely "average" (or even "a little above average"), the partner is disappointed and leaves. Superman's powers have ironically set impossible expectations that no anatomy can meet, creating a uniquely super-powered form of performance anxiety.
The votey panel shows Superman alone, sadly saying, "I'm a super cuddler," as a consolation -- highlighting his desperate attempt to salvage his romantic reputation with a decidedly non-super claim, which only makes the situation more pathetic.