Stephen King, renowned for his contributions to literature and horror, has expressed a long-standing admiration for the superhero Batman. His connection to comic books is evident in various works, including his Dark Tower series and the novel Firestarter, which showcases themes reminiscent of superhero narratives.
In 1986, King contributed a foreword to the landmark 400th issue of Batman. This issue features a super-sized story written by Doug Moench, with illustrations from multiple artists, marking a significant moment in Batman’s comic history. The narrative kicks off on the anniversary of Bruce Wayne becoming Batman, as he faces an onslaught of villains unleashed by Ra’s Al Ghul.
King’s essay, titled “Why I Chose Batman,” highlights his preference for Batman over other superheroes, particularly Superman. He describes Batman as a relatable figure, emphasizing his humanity and intelligence rather than superhuman abilities. King recalls how, during his childhood, discussions often revolved around who was the better hero, and he consistently chose Batman.
The essay reflects on the darker aspects of Batman’s character, portraying him as a figure of fear and mystery. King notes that Batman’s presence instills terror in criminals, a theme that resonates with his own horror writing. This connection suggests that, in the right narrative, Batman can embody a sense of dread akin to the monsters found in King’s stories.
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