You know, it is hard to read this story without thinking about Ditko's departure, and it sorta colors the experience. Some small detail seems to gain in importance, and it is only because you are looking for some hints as to why Steve left etc. Well, no matter, the story is not bad at all. Somehow I find myself liking Joe Smith (just like his manager!), who seems a bit simple-minded, although good-hearted. Superpowers via electricity and chemicals are an old trick, of course.

It is interesting to ponder about the message of this story. We have a talented young man, Peter Parker, who, besides all his other worthwhile activities risks his own well-being to protect others from, well whatever they need protection from. And we have Joe Smith, who's not really good at anything, landing a five-year movie contract, fortune and fame because of a single accident. How should we interpret this? Hard work pays off, but maybe not always? It is more important to be photogenic than capable? Life is really about accidents and coincidences? Something to think about.



And then we have Stan Lee's send-off to one of his top guys (via JJJ). "They all want coffee breaks -- pension funds -- profit sharing --!" Tsk. Still, much of the humor of the strip is present, whether it is through Peter's school mates or JJJ's secretaries.

Norman reveals his true colors as he hires some gangsters to finish off Spidey. Tsk.

Art in the issue is dynamic as ever, and we also get many graphical humorous touches. And look at page 16! (I can't bend the pages of my Omnibus so far back, so you really need to look at your own copy.) What an incredible, explosive fight scene!! Nothing but sound effects and action.

And with this sombre note Steve is out of the comic (and Marvel). Bye! We still do miss your Spider-Man, Mr Ditko.




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