Superman: Whatever Happened to the Man of Tomorrow? Summary & Key Insights

Alan Moore's "Superman: Whatever Happened to the Man of Tomorrow?" is a sprawling, melancholic eulogy to the Man of Steel, serving as a fitting (though non-canonical) end to the Silver Age Superman. The story unfolds as a narrative told to Lois Lane by a diverse cast of characters, each recounting their last encounter with Superman before his apparent death.

The plot revolves around a seemingly impossible scenario: Superman, seemingly aged and weakened, is dying. The narrative jumps through various timelines and locales, showing us the seemingly last moments of Superman's life from the perspectives of his friends, foes, and even cosmic entities. Each encounter unveils a piece of the puzzle, revealing the culmination of various storylines and threats from Superman's long career.

Key characters beyond Superman and Lois Lane include Lex Luthor, whose final confrontation with Superman is surprisingly poignant; Brainiac, whose machinations subtly contribute to Superman's demise; and even obscure villains and allies, each with a meaningful, final moment with the hero. The narrative also features a cast of supporting characters from across Superman's history, highlighting the vast impact he had on the world.

The overarching theme is mortality and legacy. Moore uses Superman's impending death not as a cheap shock, but as an exploration of what it means to be a hero, and the profound impact a life of selflessness has on those around him. The story meticulously avoids a simplistic "good triumphs over evil" narrative, showcasing the complexities of heroism and the limitations even a god-like being faces. The narrative emphasizes the transience of even the most powerful, highlighting the importance of the connections forged during a lifetime of heroism.

The visual style, courtesy of Curt Swan, George Pérez, and Kurt Schaffenberger, mirrors the multi-layered narrative. The art shifts styles across different segments, reflecting the varied memories and perspectives, creating a tapestry of visual styles to accompany the fragmented storytelling.

Ultimately, "Whatever Happened to the Man of Tomorrow?" is not a tale of triumph but a bittersweet reflection on Superman's incredible life and the lasting impact he made, a farewell that is both heartbreaking and deeply satisfying. It presents a Superman grappling with his own mortality and the heavy burden of responsibility, offering a mature and nuanced portrayal of the iconic character rarely seen before or since. The story's ambiguous ending allows for interpretation, leaving the reader to ponder Superman's fate and the true meaning of his sacrifice.