Context:

Junot Díaz reflects on his complex relationship with Superman, a character he encountered as a child immigrant in America. Despite Superman's immigrant background, Díaz struggled to connect with him due to the hero's complete assimilation and the dated patriotism he represented. Superman's multifaceted identity as an alien and an American, along with his inability to enact real change, resonated with Díaz's own immigrant experience. Díaz's search for a relatable Superman led him to explore stories that challenge the traditional Superman narrative, particularly 'Miracleman,' which critiques the destructive potential of unchecked power. The essay concludes by emphasizing the need for collective action in the face of global challenges, invoking the idea of a 'Superman' within each person to drive necessary change.

Dive Deeper:

• Junot Díaz, an immigrant from the Dominican Republic, encountered Superman as a child in New Jersey, but struggled to identify with the character despite their shared immigrant backgrounds. Superman's assimilation and patriotism felt alien to Díaz, who faced racial discrimination and couldn't see his own future in Superman's portrayal.

• Superman's character embodies contradictions as an alien and all-American figure, a hero trapped in a timeless narrative unable to bring about systemic change. This duality mirrors Díaz's own experience of being an outsider, unable to separate his identity from Superman's alien-ness.

• Díaz's exploration of Superman led him to appreciate stories outside the mainstream narrative, such as Alan Moore's 'Miracleman,' which critiques the consequences of superhuman power and control. These narratives offer a darker perspective on Superman, aligning more closely with Díaz's understanding of hegemonic power and cultural influence.

• The upcoming Superman movie is expected to follow familiar patterns, but Díaz highlights the importance of recognizing the 'stranger' stories within Superman that reflect broader societal truths and vulnerabilities. He questions which aspects of Superman's story society chooses to embrace, whether it be the fantasy of exceptionalism or the need for mutual support.

• Díaz concludes by suggesting that the world needs a collective 'Superman,' a metaphor for individuals coming together to address global issues. Drawing on Frederick Douglass's words, he emphasizes the need for transformative action over complacency, urging people to become their own heroes in the face of inequality and crisis.