It Pairs So Nicely With "Goddamn"

[bloodyrosemccoy]

Okay, so, there are a whole lot of aspects of his character, and of his overall story, that appeal to a vast number of people in this day and age. Something about him strikes a chord within us, resonates with our ideals and fears and wishes.

But I can't help wondering if any of Batman's long-lasting popularity is due to his name being so incredibly fun to say.

Just try saying "I'm Superman." Doesn't have nearly the same ring, does it?

Comments

[westrider.livejournal.com]

I remember reading somewhere (possibly XKCD) that native English speakers do have a preference for two-syllable words, and an even more marked one for those with a certain other pattern, something in the stresses or something. The whole Ninja/Pirate/Monkey/Robot/Zombie/Viking thing fit, as I recall.

"Batman", as far as I can tell, fits that pattern, too.

Of course, the fact that his whole character design is ridiculously archetypal certainly didn't hurt. But I think there may well be something phonetic there, too.

[padparadscha.livejournal.com]

It is nice and concise. And there's the vowel alliteration, but that can't be entirely it, either, since even "Catman" and "Ratman" aren't nearly as much fun to say. I think the /b/ sound in there is essential. Something about the way you can expel it is terribly satisfying.

[westrider.livejournal.com]

The m-b combination when you do one of the fuller versions ("I'm Batman." or "I'm the Goddam Batman.") rolls off the tongue really nicely, too.

Going from the m to the c or r in those others doesn't flow quite as well for me.

[padparadscha.livejournal.com]

I also like that he dismisses his own archetype at one point: "I'm a rich kid with issues." Yes, but you handle them SO entertainingly.

[robintheshrew.livejournal.com]

I use the phrase "I'm the Goddam Batman" way too much when I'm drunk :P

[dark-phoenix54.livejournal.com]

On the other hand, it perverts nicely to 'Buttman'

[padparadscha.livejournal.com]

... Which may also be part of the appeal.

[baroncognito.livejournal.com]

I'm trying this over and over, but there's actually something about the way "Goddamn Superman" rolls off the tongue. I honestly prefer it to "Goddamn Batman."