Bill Watterson’s Calvin and Hobbes has been around since 1985, and while there is plenty of humor to be found in this legendary comic strip, it may be even better known for its deep philosophical musings. These profound takes on life, seen through the perspective of a mischievous six-year-old boy and his sarcastic imaginary tiger, have resulted in some of the greatest quotes in comic strip history, and one in particular truly has no equal.
Calvin and Hobbes had an exemplary ten-year run, with Watterson releasing his final strip on December 31, 1995. While 1995 is notable for marking the end of the duo’s iconic run, the year is also notable because it produced Calvin and Hobbes’ greatest quote: “Nothing is permanent. Everything changes. That’s the one thing we know for sure in this world… But I’m still going to gripe about it.”
This line was delivered by Calvin in a two-panel strip that was originally published on July 17, 1995, less than six months before the comic strip’s final publication. In the strip, Calvin and Hobbes are pictured careening down a massive hill in their shared wagon. But instead of the screams of delighted terror, Calvin takes the moment to offer a profound truth about life before delivering the strip’s hilariously relatable punchline.
Calvin and Hobbes’ Greatest Quote, Explained
Calvin & Hobbes Comic Strip Published on July 17, 1995
What makes this one of the greatest quotes in Calvin and Hobbes’ history is how it balances a profound life insight with humor. The key takeaway from “Nothing is permanent. Everything changes. That’s the one thing we know for sure in this world…” is that we need to remember that nothing, good or bad, is permanent in life. While the notion that “all good things are temporary” can be somewhat distressing, it is balanced by the fact that “all bad things shall pass” as well.
This is a reminder that we should always enjoy the good things to their fullest while they last, and also seek comfort in the fact that no matter how bad life or a situation gets, it isn’t forever. So, if things are going great in your family, love life, at work, or in another area of life, show your gratitude by enjoying the moment to the fullest. Conversely, if something terrible is going on, then cling to the fact that somehow, someway, that badness will pass.
Here, Calvin accepts the universal fact of life that change will happen; however, he also injects another truth with his add-on, “But I’m still going to gripe about it.” Essentially, Calvin is accepting change while also acknowledging that it’s okay to complain about it. This makes the comic strip particularly relatable because, instead of offering a preachy, holier-than-thou response to change, Calvin offers one most people can relate to.
Calvin and Hobbes Is An Absolute Goldmine Of Memorable Quotes
Though Calvin’s musings on change stand out as particularly poignant, Watterson’s work is rich with profound, hilarious, insightful, and everything-in-between quotes. Among these notable quotes is a conversation between Calvin and his mom, in which his mom says, “Life could be worse, Calvin,” and Calvin exclaims, “Life could be a lot better, too!”
Some other notable mentions include Calvin’s iconic, “Happiness isn’t good enough for me! I demand euphoria!” his more-than-relatable, “There’s never enough time to do all the nothing you want,” and the legendary and bittersweet last line of the series, “Let’s go exploring!”
Part of what makes Calvin and Hobbes work so well is its universality. While Calvin’s experiences are undeniably those of a young boy living in 20th-century America, Watterson invites readers from all walks of life to see themselves in the precocious kid. While young readers might enjoy the whimsy and outrageous humor, older readers are still left with a lot to chew on.
Though many traditional scholars might object, Calvin and Hobbes stands as a literary masterpiece. Through thoughtful writing and gorgeous artwork, Bill Watterson was able to leave a legacy that stands tall next to the all-time greats of American literature.
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Bill Watterson
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Bill Watterson
