Summary
WARNING: Contains Potential Spoilers for The Boy Wonder #3!DC has just delivered a critical emotional blow to all fans of Damian Wayne’sRobinwith a new mantra that is so heartbreaking that it will require at least one box of tissues to soak up all the tears that are sure to be shed. This catchphrase emerges at a pivotal moment in Juni Ba’s new Black Label series, making it a can’t-miss moment for die-hard Damian stans.
While Tim may not have intended to lower his brother’s self-esteem, his words undoubtedly made Damian question if he was worthy of being Robin.
Juni Ba’s Damian Wayne-centric series returns withThe Boy Wonder#3, diving deeper into the emotional psyche of Batman’s youngest Robin. This issue focuses on Damian’s relationship with his older brother, Tim “Red Robin” Drake, as they fight side by side against one of Ra’s al Ghul’s “demons” responsible for city-wide abductions in Gotham.
Their investigation leads them to a hidden lair within Oswald “The Penguin” Cobblepot’s privately owned skyscraper. During the ensuing battle,Damian’s insecurities surface as he mentally chants, “I will be worthy.”
As a Damian Wayne Fan, I Love How His New Demon Form Reflects His Tragic Fears
Damian Wayne lives up to his al Ghul heritage with the reveal of his new demon form, giving physical representation to the fifth Robin’s worst fears.
“I Will Be Worthy”:Damian Wayne’s New Mantra Is a Reflection of His Greatest Insecurities
Damian mentally chanting “I will be worthy,” stems from his belief that he was responsible forconvincing Red Robin to join the fight, rather than Tim joining of his own volition and sense of morality. This misunderstanding, thinking he inspired his brother to change for the better, revealsDamian’s hope that he might be able to “live up to his father’s expectations after all.”With this newfound belief that he isn’t “bad” or “weak,” Damian begins to chant, “I will be worthy,” repeatedly as he battles Ra’s demon. This scene is soul-shattering, putting Damian’s insecurities on full display.
There is a lot to unpack in this scene. First and foremost, it is utterly heart-wrenching that Damian feels he is consistently failing to meet his father’s expectations. Damian’s mantra, “I will be worthy,” further compounds this by showing how badly he wants to be good and the fact that he doesn’t feel worthy. Thirdly, it is soul-crushing when, during the fight, Damian discovers he wasn’t the one to inspire Tim to do good after all; his brother had planned on helping all along. Hence,this revelation shatters the bit of self-worth and accomplishment Damian had begun to feel.
Robin’s Life-Changing New Mission Is About to Give Him the Vengeance He Deserves
It wasn’t that long ago that Bane took someone important from Robin right before his eyes. Now, Damian is getting a chance to avenge a fallen friend.
Tim Drake Didn’t Help Damian’s Self-Esteem When He Questioned If the Younger Boy Was Worthy of Being Robin
No hate to Tim Drake, but he wasn’t much help in encouraging Damian’s self-worth at the beginning of the issue. When Tim said, “I can’t pin you down, kid. I can’t tell if you value life. I can’t tell if, when push comes to shove, you’d put your life on the line for someone else,” he was essentially questioning Damian’s worthiness as Robin, insinuating that the younger boy might not have what it takes to be a real hero. While Tim may not have intended to lower his brother’s self-esteem, his words undoubtedly made Damian question if he was worthy of beingRobin.
