The Absolute Universe Gave Us the Perfect Superman and Lois Relationship

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The Absolute Universe reimagines DC’s most iconic heroes by altering core elements of their identities and challenging them to survive in a bleak, hopeless world. This is particularly true for Superman, who traditionally represents hope and morality, but is now the primary target of Darkseid’s followers. While all the supporting characters have been significantly changed, these alterations are a positive development, especially in how they’ve reshaped the dynamic between Superman and Lois Lane, creating a compelling new version of their relationship.

In the primary DC universe, Superman inspired the jaded Lois Lane to rediscover hope. Though Lois always championed justice, she’d lost her own ability to hope, and Superman reminded her – and everyone else – what it felt like. Lois, in turn, kept Clark grounded, offering him perspectives he often missed, all while continuing to fight for truth. Their relationship is already exceptional, but in the ‘Absolute’ universe, it’s taken to a new level, brilliantly displayed in Absolute Superman #13.

Two Ends of Truth, Fighting for Justice

Okay, so this issue really kicks off with the arrival of Ra’s al Ghul’s forces in Smallville – talk about a dramatic entrance! We see Superman and his friends battling it out, and they manage to get everyone safe inside this cool new base, the Fortress of Community, built by Sol. Then, the story jumps ahead six weeks, and honestly, it’s just Superman tirelessly defending the town, completely exhausted. Meanwhile, Lois is doing her best to get the word out via radio broadcasts about both Superman’s heroism and what Lazarus is up to, but we’re left wondering if anyone is actually receiving her signal. What I found really compelling about this issue, though, is how it splits the narration between Superman and Lois. Seeing the same events through their very different eyes adds a fascinating layer to the story.

Superman is acting according to his principles, but he’s lost hope. He feels people will always resent him and blames himself for the destruction, believing it’s a consequence of showing vulnerability. He’s struggling with his identity and doesn’t see a path to self-discovery. Despite expecting failure, rejection, and loneliness, he continues to fight to save others. Meanwhile, Lois insists that meeting Superman transformed her life. He taught her a better way to help the world, and she’s confident that if others could understand him as she does, they would rally to his side.

Hope Through Justice And Hope Through Truth

At its heart, the relationship between Superman and Lois remains consistent: he rescued her from despair and gave her hope. However, this version of their story has a surprising twist. While Superman saved Lois, Jimmy, and the town of Smallville, he’s actually lost hope himself. Now, it’s Lois’s turn to help him rediscover his faith in humanity and in himself. Superman is struggling with an identity crisis – he’s fighting to protect others, but doesn’t believe in his own ability to succeed. He feels like an outcast, a monster, and is unsure of who he truly is.

Lois Lane knows the truth: he’s Superman. She’s witnessed his quiet heroism, the countless lives he’s saved, and even how he inspired the people of Smallville to rally to his defense – something Superman himself doesn’t realize. He rescued Lois by giving her hope, and now she’s determined to return the favor by helping him rediscover his faith in himself and the world. Unlike their past, where Superman was always the rescuer, this time they’ll be equals, saving each other.

This Superman is acting like the hero everyone knows, but he’s struggling with deep confusion and sadness. He’s so caught up in his own pain that he can’t recognize the good he’s done for others. Luckily, Lois Lane has unwavering faith in him, believing his actions come from a genuinely good heart – something he’s lost sight of himself. Even as he continues to save the world, Superman needs to rediscover hope, and Lois is determined to help him heal. Their relationship is balanced and supportive, offering exactly what he needs.

Absolute Superman #13 is on sale now!

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2025-11-07 00:11