*This article contains spoilers for Adventures of Superman: Jon Kent #4 (2023)*
The road to Injustice is paved with grief. As we hurtle closer and closer to Injustice, it is obvious everything in the Injustice world has been led by loss and grief—two powerful emotions which have the power to destroy the world. Though we do not know what Injustice will look like, we are quickly approaching it.
In this issue, Jon meets with the so-called Insurgency—those who oppose the actions of Superman—and learns of their mission to kill Superman. Lex Luthor, a good friend of Batman, brings the Bat the weapon Ultraman had been using to kill Supermen across the multiverse. When Jon confronts Batman, the insurgency unleashes their wrath on him—surprising Jon with their superior strength!
Unfortunately for them, Lex Luthor did not get the chance to warn them of Jon’s new powers—his stored-up solar power which zaps everyone around him. Before the fight turns lethal for either side, Alfred enters.
It is then that Jon gets to have a conversation with the Insurgency. He learns that Superman was drugged by the Joker and manipulated into killing Lois Lane. That Superman effectively killed his unborn son without knowing it. That the world fell apart because of one bad day. Jon investigates further, mentioning he believes he knows which side is right—the one with Barbara and Alfred on it.
Jon goes to speak with Damian—who is a proud Super-supporter. For whatever reason, he sides with the dictator called Superman. Jon tries to get through Damian’s thick skull, but Damian wants to know what to do with Jon.
The last person Jon visits is Jay Nakamura’s doppelganger—essentially a version of his boyfriend from another Earth. He asks for advice. Jay does his best to explain everything that happened on his earth. How both sides have lost important people. Both sides are fighting out of grief.
Jon finally realizes who he can trust. He hugs Jay and leaves.
Only after leaving, Damian sneaks into Jay’s apartment and confronts him…
Tom Taylor knows Jon Kent so well—he is literally defining the character as the peaceful protector the superhero world needs. First was the Golden Age Superman, a warm and wise hero, then came the Modern Superman, an icon of humility and selflessness. And now the Next Superman, a peaceful paladin of justice.
Keep up the good work Tom Taylor!
Rating: 4/5 Stars: Once again, Tom Taylor showcases the best of Jon. Jon does not wish to fight. He wants to solve problems through diplomacy—highly effective as a hero. This series has been strong from the start and the narrative continues keeping the reader engaged.
Suggested reading: Injustice: Year One (2016) if you still have not yet read it!
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