Aug 13 2014

Comics And Robin Williams Collide (Links)

There’s a series of panels in the graphic novel ‘The Watchmen’ in which Rorschach (probably my favorite character in the book) delivers the following ‘joke’:

Man goes to doctor. Says he’s depressed. Says life seems harsh and cruel. Says he feels all alone in a threatening world where what lies ahead is vague and uncertain. Doctor says, “Treatment is simple. Great clown, Pagliacci, is in town tonight. Go and see him. That should pick you up.” Man bursts into tears. Says, “But doctor, I am Pagliacci.”

Here’s the “joke” as portrayed in the movie version of ‘Watchmen’.

Personally I prefer the original, which you can see at, or right here.

Watchmen Pagliacci

For anyone wondering what the hell this has to do with Robin Williams, here is the explanation from

Echoing the series’ central question of “who watches the watchmen?” the joke poses the question of “who makes the clown laugh?” It’s a question many fans find themselves asking with Williams’ passing. So many fans turned to him and his work for cheering up when they were down, but who was there to do the same for him?

If you, or anyone you know, is struggling with depression, remember that the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline’s is open 24/7, and that the number is 1-800-273-TALK (8255).

I appreciate that they put in the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline’s phone number. If there is anything we can learn from Williams’ untimely demise, it’s that suicide is not a joke and not limited to those whose lives appear to be crappy. Depression is very real and should be taken seriously.

Our condolences to Robin Williams’ family, friends, and loved ones.

Watchmen Joke Goes Viral After Robin Williams’ Death |