Cerebus #271

Part of the long-running "Latter Days" chapter of Dave Sim and Gerhard's epic 300-issue series, this October 2001 installment presents a wonderfully deadpan cover — the gruff aardvark Cerebus sits trussed up in thick rope, scowling beneath a photograph of a serene white swan, while bold lettering proclaims "If Cerebus Be Bound So Long, Cerebus Could Plotz." Cover pencils and inks by Dave Sim and Ken Sim give the image a playful absurdity that balances the grandly titled arc with a wry sense of humor. It's a fine snapshot of the series' unique blend of the epic and the comedic deep into its remarkable run.