Batman and Robin #17 (2013), titled "Life Is But a Dream," is an emotional aftermath of the "Death of the Family" storyline that focuses on the dreams and psychological fallout experienced by Bruce Wayne, Damian Wayne, and Alfred Pennyworth. Written by Peter J. Tomasi with art by Patrick Gleason, the issue explores the themes of legacy and family dynamics through the characters' subconscious minds.
A brief plot summary:
Following the horrific ordeal with the Joker, the three residents of Wayne Manor go to sleep for a much-needed rest.
Damian's dream: The young Robin is torn between his Wayne legacy and his al Ghul past. He sees a vision where he drowns those he loves as part of his al Ghul heritage but finds he cannot bring himself to harm Alfred. He awakens to a live robin in his room and follows it through the manor, only to discover a gruesome scene involving his father.
Bruce's dream: Batman's dream is a nightmare where he is swallowed by a giant white whale with the Joker's face, symbolizing his all-consuming battle with his rogues' gallery. He is ultimately saved by Robin, suggesting that his son can rescue him from being fully consumed by his mission.
Alfred's dream: Alfred's dream shows a happier past with a young Bruce and his parents, before being interrupted by a jarring and violent vision of the Joker. This reflects Alfred's wish for the Wayne family to be happy and his desire for catharsis against the Joker.
The issue was noted by critics for its sensitive exploration of the characters' psychological state and its strong character work, particularly concerning Damian and the relationship between Batman and his family.
Batman and Robin #17 (2013), titled "Life Is But a Dream," is an emotional aftermath of the "Death of the Family" storyline that focuses on the dreams and psychological fallout experienced by Bruce Wayne, Damian Wayne, and Alfred Pennyworth. Written by Peter J. Tomasi with art by Patrick Gleason, the issue explores the themes of legacy and family dynamics through the characters' subconscious minds.
A brief plot summary:
Following the horrific ordeal with the Joker, the three residents of Wayne Manor go to sleep for a much-needed rest.
Damian's dream: The young Robin is torn between his Wayne legacy and his al Ghul past. He sees a vision where he drowns those he loves as part of his al Ghul heritage but finds he cannot bring himself to harm Alfred. He awakens to a live robin in his room and follows it through the manor, only to discover a gruesome scene involving his father.
Bruce's dream: Batman's dream is a nightmare where he is swallowed by a giant white whale with the Joker's face, symbolizing his all-consuming battle with his rogues' gallery. He is ultimately saved by Robin, suggesting that his son can rescue him from being fully consumed by his mission.
Alfred's dream: Alfred's dream shows a happier past with a young Bruce and his parents, before being interrupted by a jarring and violent vision of the Joker. This reflects Alfred's wish for the Wayne family to be happy and his desire for catharsis against the Joker.
The issue was noted by critics for its sensitive exploration of the characters' psychological state and its strong character work, particularly concerning Damian and the relationship between Batman and his family.
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