THESE FORUMS NOW CLOSED (read only)

Comic Discussion => QUESTIONABLE CONTENT => Topic started by: jwhouk on 28 Apr 2019, 09:11

Title: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: jwhouk on 28 Apr 2019, 09:11
New week, new poll, new questions... okay, maybe not "new", but you get the idea.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Gyrre on 28 Apr 2019, 09:20
Better than my poll idea.

I was going to get you all to help me make a musical abomination by listing several genres and sub genres and asking "Which two would sound best mixed together?"
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: TheEvilDog on 28 Apr 2019, 09:22
Unless we were going to get another time skip, I doubt Claire would get her results so quickly.

No, I think this week is going to be about the engagement and Faye's walk along the razor's edge.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: BenRG on 28 Apr 2019, 11:21
I'm pretty sure that Jeph has clearly signposted that Faye is going to have a stumble of some sort.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: shanejayell on 28 Apr 2019, 15:04
I hope Hanners gets the news and comes back.  :-D

IO'm also thinking Faye might stumble, but I hope not.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Is it cold in here? on 28 Apr 2019, 15:10
With Bubbles next to her?
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: TheEvilDog on 28 Apr 2019, 15:40
Is Bubbles now surgically attached to Faye's side?

She can't be behind Faye all the time.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: hedgie on 28 Apr 2019, 15:49
Exactly.  Either Faye is going to have to learn how to deal with a bar atmosphere by herself, or that she should avoid them entirely.  I do think that it might actually help that it's the Horrible Revelation, and not some dive where they'd serve anyone capable of holding a glass without spilling more than half the contents.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Is it cold in here? on 28 Apr 2019, 19:24
Bubbles is certain to notice the signal flare :-)

Her hand has not been off Faye's shoulder since they got into the bar.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: TheEvilDog on 28 Apr 2019, 19:30
Her hand has not been off Faye's shoulder since they got into the bar.

To be fair, that could be all of a minute.

But its one thing to say to your partner that you're an alcoholic, its another thing for them to actually witness it. What I mean is that Bubbles has been supportive of Faye, but she also met Faye after she had begun therapy and was in the midst of sobering up. Bubbles has never seen Faye drink or seen the aftereffects. What she has seen is Faye avoiding the temptation and nearly buckle. She's also never seen the secret stashes of drink that kept around the apartment or work. She's never seen the worst of it and might not know what to look for.

Or Bubbles could go overly protective, insisting on checking every single one of Faye's drinks. Which is going to cause its own set of troubles.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Tova on 28 Apr 2019, 20:00
I reckon that word “stumble” is just vague/non-specific enough to be a reasonably safe guess.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Is it cold in here? on 28 Apr 2019, 20:05
It is possible that Bubbles's presence will be decisive simply because Faye is unwilling to disappoint her. She probably would hate to let Marten down as well.

Bubbles has probably read about human alcoholism, and I forget how she found that one liquor bottle but its fate in her hands was grisly.

If Faye tries to sneak off to poison herself, Bubbles is certain to suspect what's happening because she's already on alert. That would open ground for drama as they had a fight along the lines of "Don't you trust me?!"/"So you care more about the booze than about me."
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Near Lurker on 28 Apr 2019, 20:14
...since flavoring extracts are nearly all made with alcohol, I'm left wondering whether it matters if "juniper extract" is a euphemism or not.  Presumably, she's not going to drink it either way...
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Wombat on 28 Apr 2019, 20:21
Brun!

I was excited to see her, and then I had to go back and check if she was in the background previously and I was just dense. Anyway, she's there now and I'm excited for any Interactions.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Mr Intrepid on 28 Apr 2019, 20:31
(1) I thought that was Brun!
(2) Bubbles has olfactory sensors that can detect chemical weapons,
       Surely she can detect traces of alcohol on Faye's breath.
(3) If Claire doesn't get a job as a librarian right away, I see a new career path
      opening up for her.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: shanejayell on 28 Apr 2019, 20:34
"So is Faye hiding in the bathroom to avoid the booze?" Marten asked

"It appears so. I shall go see." Bubbles replied.

......

"No, it was the burritos. Also, do NOT go in there."
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: SomeCanadianWeirdo on 28 Apr 2019, 21:01
I'm hoping we'll get to see Tai's parents eventually.  It's probably a bit early this week unless she phones them in the next couple of strips to announce the engagement.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: mneme on 28 Apr 2019, 21:42
Wait, they can't pay her?

I mean, Dora's a successful (enough) businesswoman who employs like 3 people full-time; Tai is a working librarian without a lot of expenses.  Why wouldn't they be able to pay her at least a token sum?
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: cybersmurf on 28 Apr 2019, 22:30
"So is Faye hiding in the bathroom to avoid the booze?" Marten asked

"It appears so. I shall go see." Bubbles replied.

......

"No, it was the burritos. Also, do NOT go in there."


...well, if you DO go in there i recommend turning your olfactory sensors down to minimum, or off entirely
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Cornelius on 28 Apr 2019, 22:45
Wait, they can't pay her?

I mean, Dora's a successful (enough) businesswoman who employs like 3 people full-time; Tai is a working librarian without a lot of expenses.  Why wouldn't they be able to pay her at least a token sum?
Dora is also shown to take on most extra shifts herself for the money, basically being forced to hire another person for her own health. Having people work for you is not evidence of ready cash. Asides from which, I think they need to budget for the wedding as well.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Tova on 28 Apr 2019, 23:11
Yes, indeed. This may seem like nitpicking, but it makes all the difference: Dora doesn't employ 3 people full-time, her business does.

I'm sure Claire would get paid if she was doing something for the cafe.

I am also quite sure that Claire would want her involvement in the wedding to be based on friendship, not a business relationship.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: BenRG on 28 Apr 2019, 23:28
Well, it looks like Brun finally got her wish of being a bartender again! Which is good because, if Bubbles were to tell her that Faye is on a no-alcohol rule, she's the sort of personality who'd just be blankly no-debate about saying 'no' if Faye asks for a drink on the sly!

Claire is so wonderful with Tai and Dora here. It's entirely in-character that she's have pretty much already done all the Google legwork for the big day!

You know, this literally just occurred to me but Jeph may be indicating a big swerve in Claire's life plan here. What if she decides that she likes arranging events (and weddings in particular) so much that she decides to make a job of it before her library job comes through? Then, the library job comes through and she realises that she doesn't actually want it at all and seeing people happy on their big day is far more satisfying for her! It's a valid enough possibility!

Now, is Faye really going for a burrito disposal visit to the Porcelain Palace? Even if she is, she's going to have to face lots of temptations on her own!

Wait, they can't pay her?

I mean, Dora's a successful (enough) businesswoman who employs like 3 people full-time; Tai is a working librarian without a lot of expenses.  Why wouldn't they be able to pay her at least a token sum?

Basically, Dora isn't that wealthy. CoD probably contains most of her assets and money in a form not easily turned to liquidity. Between Dora and Tai, the two are probably only barely above 'struggling to break even'. That said, I'm also wondering if this is Dora the businesswoman at work here: She's trying to get the best possible deal from Claire!
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Is it cold in here? on 28 Apr 2019, 23:28
It's been a while since we got information about how Coffee of Doom is doing, but back when we did, Dora was fretting about its success and prospects.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Killspree on 29 Apr 2019, 00:18
Dora's comment on just selling Coffee of Doom and moving with Tai so easily 'Might' be taken as its only doing so-so.

Then again it may not... :D
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Theta9 on 29 Apr 2019, 07:23
...since flavoring extracts are nearly all made with alcohol, I'm left wondering whether it matters if "juniper extract" is a euphemism or not.
I read it as "gin".
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: brasca on 29 Apr 2019, 08:25
I wonder if Brun has a second job at a different bar since I thought the Drunken Revelation had an old tyme dress code. 

For once Faye’s nutritional choices may keep her on the wagon or on the throne as it were.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: cybersmurf on 29 Apr 2019, 08:45
I believe the Horrible Revelation applies the dress code only to the bartenders. Elliot doesn't dress up, and we've seen Brun in normal attire working there before (the smelling incident).

Or maybe it's voluntary for them.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Rincewind on 29 Apr 2019, 09:03
If that's Brun behind the bar, what are those little white dots running down her temple and by her eye? And, is she wearing lipstick?   :?
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: TheEvilDog on 29 Apr 2019, 09:10
Yeah, I'm thinking that's not Brun. The woman in today's comic is the same height as Marten, whereas Brun is the same height as Clinton and if memory serves, Marten is a fair bit taller than him. The lips look different to Brun's as we usually see them and her head is higher than Brun's. I mean, it could be Brun, but I don't think it is her.

Also, the white dots on her temple are probably beads of sweat.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: cybersmurf on 29 Apr 2019, 09:11
Sweat, and the tip of her tongue.

 Have we ever seen Brun from that angle?
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Roborat on 29 Apr 2019, 12:17
"Bubbles is sampling some juniper extract"  So she has a glass of gin??
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Perfectly Reasonable on 29 Apr 2019, 12:22
...since flavoring extracts are nearly all made with alcohol, I'm left wondering whether it matters if "juniper extract" is a euphemism or not.
I read it as "gin".

"juniper extract" is indeed a thing, just not something you'd find offered in a bar.
'BBQ Pork Tacos' seems to be the menu special. BBQ pork burritos seem to be a thing as well-- wonder if that's what sent Faye out of bounds...
And if that's not Brün, she's certainly rocking Brün's hairstyle.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Mr Intrepid on 29 Apr 2019, 12:29
So Claire has information about wedding venues and dates right there.  Either her Google-fu is strong, or she keeps a running list, just in case.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: thedevilissix on 29 Apr 2019, 12:46
I feel a bit uneasy about Dora asking whether Claire’d be up for working for free.
My previously self employed hustler brain is firing off “NO DAMMIT YOU SHOULD BE PAID IF YOU HAVE A TALENT FOR THIS”  :x) - that said, if she agrees to it in order to get more experience at it (or simply because she simply wants to help friends with sorting out their special day)....I can kind of understand?
I feel a bit conflicted..   :?
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: hedgie on 29 Apr 2019, 13:04
Dora's just a tough negotiator.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: TheEvilDog on 29 Apr 2019, 13:18
I'm more concerned with Claire jumping in and almost taking control of Dora and Tai's wedding planning.

I mean, fair play to Dora for getting free work but I don't know, its typical Claire and its going to blow up in her face.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Zebediah on 29 Apr 2019, 13:26
And if that's not Brün, she's certainly rocking Brün's hairstyle.

And Brun’s coloration, and Brun’s general physique, and Brun’s job. If that’s not Brun, why did Jeph make a new character who looks exactly like her and does the same job at the same place?
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: dutchrvl on 29 Apr 2019, 13:48
And if that's not Brün, she's certainly rocking Brün's hairstyle.

And Brun’s coloration, and Brun’s general physique, and Brun’s job. If that’s not Brun, why did Jeph make a new character who looks exactly like her and does the same job at the same place?

And even the exact same color t-shirt. Yeah I'm with you on this that this simply IS Brun.

Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Mr Intrepid on 29 Apr 2019, 14:31
And if that's not Brün, she's certainly rocking Brün's hairstyle.

And Brun’s coloration, and Brun’s general physique, and Brun’s job. If that’s not Brun, why did Jeph make a new character who looks exactly like her and does the same job at the same place?

And even the exact same color t-shirt. Yeah I'm with you on this that this simply IS Brun.
And Brun tends to get very focused.  Unless she is directly addressed by someone.  Plus, how long have they been there?  This may be the first time she's passed by.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: hedgie on 29 Apr 2019, 14:41
And if that's not Brün, she's certainly rocking Brün's hairstyle.

And Brun’s coloration, and Brun’s general physique, and Brun’s job. If that’s not Brun, why did Jeph make a new character who looks exactly like her and does the same job at the same place?

Clearly, that eldritch beer she drank created a doppelgänger.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Gyrre on 29 Apr 2019, 17:15
Background Brun!
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Gyrre on 29 Apr 2019, 17:19
...since flavoring extracts are nearly all made with alcohol, I'm left wondering whether it matters if "juniper extract" is a euphemism or not.
I read it as "gin".
Wouldn't that be "juniper ale" instead?
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: TheEvilDog on 29 Apr 2019, 18:08
No, it'd be gin, its made from Juniper berries.

Well, it'd be more likely than the bar selling the Finnish beer "sahti", but that's made with rye as well as juniper berries.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Perfectly Reasonable on 29 Apr 2019, 18:20
And if that's not Brün, she's certainly rocking Brün's hairstyle.

And Brun’s coloration, and Brun’s general physique, and Brun’s job. If that’s not Brun, why did Jeph make a new character who looks exactly like her and does the same job at the same place?

Clearly, that eldritch beer she drank created a doppelgänger.

The shirt the doppelgänger is wearing has the same RGB values as the one Brün wears in  3941-6.  (https://questionablecontent.net/view.php?comic=3943)

Funny, the doppelgänger question has come up  before.  (https://questionablecontent.net/view.php?comic=3294)
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Theta9 on 29 Apr 2019, 19:57
No, it'd be gin, its made from Juniper berries.
I thot gin was grain alcohol flavored with juniper berries, not "made from" them.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: TheEvilDog on 29 Apr 2019, 20:11
No, it'd be gin, its made from Juniper berries.
I thought gin was grain alcohol flavored with juniper berries, not "made from" them.

There are 4 legal definitions of gin.
- Juniper flavoured spirit drink - where a fermented mash is pot distilled to approximately 68% alcohol by volume, then redistilled with botanicals.
- Gin - where the mash is not redistilled, but the flavour is just added and where the predominant flavour must be juniper.
- Distilled gin - where the ethanol is distilled in the presence of predominantly juniper berries.
- London gin - where the ethanol is redistilled in the presence of all the natural plant material involved.

I grew up around distilleries, granted predominantly whiskey distilleries, but they also produced gin in regular quantities.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: cesium133 on 29 Apr 2019, 20:53
New comic.

Bubbles is, of course, right about IPAs.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: TV4Fun on 29 Apr 2019, 20:54
Comic.

Definitely agree with Bubbles' opinion of IPA. Not surprised Marten's drinking it though.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Mordhaus on 29 Apr 2019, 21:55
That may be the most complete and accurate description of an IPA ever.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: hedgie on 29 Apr 2019, 22:08
Agreed.  I have a friend who is obsessed with them for whatever reason, but she's always wanting some of whatever stout or porter I order for myself.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: OldGoat on 29 Apr 2019, 22:14
Of course that's Brun. 

The 1890s dress code probably doesn't apply until after 5:00.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Is it cold in here? on 29 Apr 2019, 22:21
(https://imgs.xkcd.com/comics/beer.png)
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: BenRG on 29 Apr 2019, 23:23
This is probably a consequence of not drinking very much but I don't get the punchline beyond a vague awareness of 'real ale' snobbery that Jeph is referencing and criticising.

Meanwhile, I think that Jeph is aware of the debate amongst his readers about Faye's behaviour. As I suspected, it's basically her desire not to be the one who "spoils everyone else's fun" because of her own situation. It is somewhat indicative of both her essentially generous nature but also, unfortunately, of her low self-esteem and her belief that she doesn't deserve consideration.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Mr_Rose on 29 Apr 2019, 23:45
This is probably a consequence of not drinking very much but I don't get the punchline beyond a vague awareness of 'real ale' snobbery that Jeph is referencing and criticising.
It doesn’t have anything to do with ‘real ale’ – IPAs predate the concept by about a century. It has far more to do with the quantity of hops used, which is “all of them”, giving the stuff a strong astringent flavour like washing your hands in lye soap and white wine then licking them.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Mr. Doctor on 30 Apr 2019, 00:06
Eh... I really like them. Can’t take more than 3 in a row though. It fills me up too much. Like eating a large meal.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: cybersmurf on 30 Apr 2019, 00:52
more hops means longer shelf life, better suited for the sea voyage to India. hence the name India Pale Ale.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: traroth on 30 Apr 2019, 01:15
So Bubbles doesn't always see unicorns or winged horses. Sometimes, it's a guy urinating...

Now, I wonder what Melon saw back then (https://www.questionablecontent.net/view.php?comic=3729)...
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: cybersmurf on 30 Apr 2019, 01:24
To a degree, it feels like Melon ia chasing a near death experience.
My guess is, the drain cleaner gave what other people might classify as bad trip, only Melon likes it. Look at what she does for work - but what does she actually do (https://questionablecontent.net/view.php?comic=3643), though?
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Tova on 30 Apr 2019, 01:32
There's no accounting for taste, I guess.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: cybersmurf on 30 Apr 2019, 01:41
There's no accounting for taste, I guess.

IPAs, Melon, or both?
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: traroth on 30 Apr 2019, 02:17
To a degree, it feels like Melon ia chasing a near death experience.
My guess is, the drain cleaner gave what other people might classify as bad trip, only Melon likes it. Look at what she does for work - but what does she actually do (https://questionablecontent.net/view.php?comic=3643), though?

I don't know either what she does, but she likes it (https://www.questionablecontent.net/view.php?comic=3845). And Roko seems to be completely unaware of what Melon does for a living.

And I found some indication (https://www.questionablecontent.net/view.php?comic=3792) about what she sees when she smells some strange chemicals...
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Tova on 30 Apr 2019, 02:39
There's no accounting for taste, I guess.

IPAs, Melon, or both?

Please note: that phrase means, "Personal preference is beyond criticism."

It does not specifically mean, "I think that person has terrible taste." In case that's what you thought I was saying.

What I'm really saying is I don't see the point in criticising people who like IPAs. Or screaming while covered in vermin.

I personally think that IPAs are fine. Not my favourite, not what I usually buy, but if someone shouted me one, I'd happily drink it.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Cornelius on 30 Apr 2019, 04:12
IPA's have their time and place. A hot summer's day, for instance. Just like most other ales and beers have their own place.  Given a choice, though, give me a Belgian red amber.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Tai Fanboi on 30 Apr 2019, 04:43
I'm lost on beer conversations.  Most beers give me a migraine on my 2nd or 3rd one.  It's why I stick to my "cheap and crappy" Pabst Blue Ribbon.  Most of my drinking buddies are beer snobs and usually feel the need to make a joke or two about my beverage of choice.  But I sit there happily with it knowing my six pack of pint cans was $5.99 while they paid god knows what for theirs.  Plus since my beer is mostly water I can drink a 12 pack in a night, go to bed, wake up and go to work with no ill effects :D

Just have to remember not to add in Rye whiskey.  That stuff I can be a little snobbish about myself lol
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: oddtail on 30 Apr 2019, 05:10
I wasn't aware IPAs had a reputation for being... not good? To be honest, I still don't understand the point. Aren't they just a kind of beer, and therefore can wildly vary in quality?

Some of my favourite beers were IPAs. I'm not a beer connoisseur or anything, but I drink beer on occasion. Apparently, I drink the... wrong kinds of beer?
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: dutchrvl on 30 Apr 2019, 05:20
I wasn't aware IPAs had a reputation for being... not good? To be honest, I still don't understand the point. Aren't they just a kind of beer, and therefore can wildly vary in quality?

Some of my favourite beers were IPAs. I'm not a beer connoisseur or anything, but I drink beer on occasion. Apparently, I drink the... wrong kinds of beer?

I don't think they have a reputation for being not good, I think it's more referring to IPAs having become all the rage in the past 5-10 years (seriously, 15-20 years ago you really didn't have that many of them), despite many people who don't quite get the appeal of them.
I am one of them. I really like beer in general, lagers, stout, porter, wheat, etc. However, pale ales, and IPAs in particular, I just don't find appealing, not in taste, and definitely not in smell.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: traroth on 30 Apr 2019, 06:02
Since almost all breweries in my native Alsace, which once was a major land of beer, were bought by Heineken (Ancre, Fischer, Adelsoffen, Mutzig) and Carlsberg (Kronenbourg), I drink belgian abbey beer, like Grimbergen, Affligem or Leffe, or alsatian Meteor (the last survivor of globalization, which is hard to find) whenever I find some (especially Wendelinus abbey beer). I also like Hoegaarden (also belgian).
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: TheEvilDog on 30 Apr 2019, 06:07
Just something to remember about beer, even internationally recognised brands are going to be a differing quality based on their markets. Locally sourced hops, water and other ingredients are going to have an impact on the overall quality, flavour and taste, as will how its stored. What tastes good in one country might taste like crap in another.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Cornelius on 30 Apr 2019, 06:39
Water is actually a key ingredient when it comes to transplanting breweries. Most of the rest you can replicate, even if some yeasts are markedly different when cultivated. Water, though, in the amounts you need it, can be costly to adjust.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: cybersmurf on 30 Apr 2019, 06:42
There's no accounting for taste, I guess.

IPAs, Melon, or both?

Please note: that phrase means, "Personal preference is beyond criticism."

It does not specifically mean, "I think that person has terrible taste." In case that's what you thought I was saying.

What I'm really saying is I don't see the point in criticising people who like IPAs. Or screaming while covered in vermin.

I personally think that IPAs are fine. Not my favourite, not what I usually buy, but if someone shouted me one, I'd happily drink it.

I meant to inquire context, so the answer I was looking for is probably "generally, and both to be specific".


With the rise of craft beers they revived some uncommon brewing styles, including IPAs. They do have their place, but my go-to style still is "Märzen" (I think that's Lager, basically).
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Emperor Norton on 30 Apr 2019, 06:44
IPAs are fine. Not my favorite, but don't dislike them either. They do have the reputation of being the "dude" beer style though.

I prefer like local sour ales or goses, and if I'm somewhere that doesn't have small brewery stuff, I go with a wheat bear like a Weihenstephaner or Hoegaarden.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: cybersmurf on 30 Apr 2019, 06:49
IPAs have a certain hipster reputation, I think.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: OldGoat on 30 Apr 2019, 07:04
I LOVE liquid bread beer.  Roko?  Care to join me?
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Theta9 on 30 Apr 2019, 07:35
Oh damn... SHOTS FIRED!
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: cybersmurf on 30 Apr 2019, 07:37
Oh damn... SHOTS FIRED!

What kinds of shots? Vodka? Tequila?
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Torlek on 30 Apr 2019, 07:49
IPAs have a certain hipster reputation, I think.

^This. IPAs are the hipster beer, and there seems to be a direct correlation between the skinniness of the jeans/waxiness of the beard and the amount of hops said hipster will claim they like. Those of us that like to actually taste grain in our beer "just aren't sophisticated enough to appreciate real beer" (nevermind the fact that IPAs originated from attempts to cover up the fact that the beer in question had gone bad). There's some that can actually be good (New England-style or "juicy" examples can be good with more fruit notes than pine and I'm growing fond of the "brut" trend where they use some champagne enzyme to knock down the bitter flavors while leaving the lovely scent) but most IPAs in America come from the Pacific Northwest-style which has devolved into an arms race to see who can shove the most bittering hops into their wort (I've even tried an example where they smoked the hops over peat, it was NOT a good choice).
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: RyanPm40 on 30 Apr 2019, 09:41
I love a good NH / New England IPA. But I can also see Bubbles' description as pretty accurate.

I love them most when there are some fruity/floral flavoring to it and not super high in IBU. I wouldn't even say they're really hipster anymore. College kids love them for the high alcohol content.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: RyanPm40 on 30 Apr 2019, 09:44
IPAs have a certain hipster reputation, I think.

^This. IPAs are the hipster beer, and there seems to be a direct correlation between the skinniness of the jeans/waxiness of the beard and the amount of hops said hipster will claim they like. Those of us that like to actually taste grain in our beer "just aren't sophisticated enough to appreciate real beer" (nevermind the fact that IPAs originated from attempts to cover up the fact that the beer in question had gone bad). There's some that can actually be good (New England-style or "juicy" examples can be good with more fruit notes than pine and I'm growing fond of the "brut" trend where they use some champagne enzyme to knock down the bitter flavors while leaving the lovely scent) but most IPAs in America come from the Pacific Northwest-style which has devolved into an arms race to see who can shove the most bittering hops into their wort (I've even tried an example where they smoked the hops over peat, it was NOT a good choice).

I didn't know IPAs were huge in the Pacific Northwest. Isn't a California Common the alternative that they make out there? I remember it being explained to me in a way that a Common style of beer is basically an IPL (lager) while the North east focuses on an IPA (ale).
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: OldGoat on 30 Apr 2019, 11:31
(I've even tried an example where they smoked the hops over peat, it was NOT a good choice).
What pervert did that?  One reason for drinking beer is to clear the smoke flavors of whatever I'm grilling out to get ready for the next bite.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Akima on 30 Apr 2019, 17:02
Thanks for the IPA explanations above. IPAs exist in Australia, but "beer culture" is a bit foreign to me.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Gyrre on 30 Apr 2019, 17:26
That may be the most complete and accurate description of an IPA ever.
"It's an acquired taste."

One I shall never acquire.

I can't stand any grain-based beer or ale. All of it is super bitter to me and triggers my gag reflex. Fruit beers are fine, and so is Danish honey mead, but none of the grain  stuff. Strong liquors are a mixed bag but mostly fine (certain rums, Jägermeister, Root 100, Pucker, etc are fine). And, most mixed drinks are fine, too (Seaside Sunrise is probably my favorite).

EDIT: typo fixes and bolding for emphasis

P.S. No intent of snobbery, I just can't drink them. If you like them, enjoy.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Near Lurker on 30 Apr 2019, 19:07
...I mean, by definition, beer is grain-based... I guess ciders and meads sometimes turn up on the beer list, but...
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: TheEvilDog on 30 Apr 2019, 19:48
Marten owes me €923, €1 for every brain cell that idiot just broke.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: jwhouk on 30 Apr 2019, 20:15
...Is that sarcasm? :-D :wink:

Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: shanejayell on 30 Apr 2019, 20:26
Marten just figured if you acquired enough experience, you automatically level up.

I like the "Be nice to Elliot" note in the background. Brun reminder? ;)
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Gyrre on 30 Apr 2019, 20:47
...I mean, by definition, beer is grain-based... I guess ciders and meads sometimes turn up on the beer list, but...

Tepache (http://"https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tepache"), also tiswin and a number of others.

EDIT: Upon further reading; 'tiswin' refers either to a corn beer or to the sacred saguaro wine of the Tohono O'odham.
Though, "fruit beer" will turn up a list of results.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Cornelius on 30 Apr 2019, 23:30
Tepache is no beer. Tiswin, yes, though to what extent maize should counted as a grain; there are other be recipes that add corn to the malt.

Fruit beers exist, but generally there made in one of two ways: either fruit is added to the malt during the mash - like Belgian Kriek - or fruit is added before fermentation. Some fruit beers are regular beer with fruit extract added after fermentation. More of a mixed drink. In every case, there is a grain base malt.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: BenRG on 30 Apr 2019, 23:39
I've tried my best and tried to be fair to Marten but, in the end, there is only one conclusion to come to: No, Bubbles, he isn't being sarcastic. Whilst Jeph is doubtless exaggerating for comic force, Marten really thought that change was spontaneous.

So, I'm wondering if we were all wrong and the potential for Faye having an issue during the engagement party was a red herring. Could it be that we're heading to a whole new arc where Marten tries to reinvent himself for the future? It can be argued that every strip that featured him in the last 500 strips at least identified his passivity and stagnation as a character as a growing issue.

Meanwhile, I suspect that Claire has finally scrolled through all the serious choices and that she, Tai and Dora are now looking at all the options for funny theme weddings!
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: cybersmurf on 01 May 2019, 01:09
Yes Marten, there are changes you don't aim for consciously, but they tend to be minor. Admittedly, you get forced to make a decision. But no, if you want to change, you have to work on it.


I consider myself a patient person, but I can feel I have lost some of my patience over the years. It's probably that I expect people to know certain things, and I am disinclined to make them understand that. Or something like that.
... Crap, I might turn into a grumpy old man!
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: TV4Fun on 01 May 2019, 01:23
I'm wondering if we were all wrong and the potential for Faye having an issue during the engagement party was a red herring. Could it be that we're heading to a whole new arc where Marten tries to reinvent himself for the future? It can be argued that every strip that featured him in the last 500 strips at least identified his passivity and stagnation as a character as a growing issue.
Right, it will happen just after we've finished the Roko dysphoria arc.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: brasca on 01 May 2019, 03:02

I like the "Be nice to Elliot" note in the background. Brun reminder? ;)

I don’t think that note is intended for Brun.  She’s nice to him.

Strange that Bubbles with all her finely tuned senses cannot detect sarcasm.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: TV4Fun on 01 May 2019, 03:09
trange that Bubbles with all her finely tuned senses cannot detect sarcasm.
I'm pretty sure she can.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Welu on 01 May 2019, 03:26
I still struggle with this mindset. "I haven't practiced or done anything related to this skill in months except thought about wanting to be better. Isn't that enough?"
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: cybersmurf on 01 May 2019, 04:19
Apparently Marten thought you'd solely grow through life experience. Of course life makes you the person you are, but not necessarily the person you want to be.
Being as passive as he is hasn't really hurt Marten until now, or at least not in a way he had felt the need to actively seek change.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: TheEvilDog on 01 May 2019, 04:54
Being as passive as he is hasn't really hurt Marten until now, or at least not in a way he had felt the need to actively seek change.

That's been a major part of Marten's arc from the beginning. Most, if not all of Marten's major changes in life have been the result of someone else enacting them.
Which has the side effect that Marten has never really worked towards anything, because its usually just fallen into his lap. And that has hurt him in its own way, he's never developed the desire to go out and take life by the horns. Its had the opposite effect, he's just this passive guy who today just looks like he's been slapped in the face with the realisation that he has to work at obtaining the life he wants.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Theta9 on 01 May 2019, 07:28
I have WAY too much Marten in me.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: St.Clair on 01 May 2019, 19:34
So, I'm wondering if we were all wrong and the potential for Faye having an issue during the engagement party was a red herring.

You were saying?  :laugh:
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: snufflebottoms on 01 May 2019, 19:45
I know Sven wasn't the greatest ever or anything but like it's his sister's engagement celebration. He kind of has a right to be there.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: jwhouk on 01 May 2019, 20:07
Even probably doesn't even know about the engagement, I'd bet.

Sent from my Acer Chromebook R11 (CB5-132T / C738T / CB3-132) using Tapatalk

Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: snufflebottoms on 01 May 2019, 20:08
Possibly true. But in any case, it is just a regular place so like what is he supposed to move away? Idk
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: TheEvilDog on 01 May 2019, 20:10
Wouldn't surprise me, and definitely wouldn't be surprised if Sven was the catalyst for whatever fiasco happens over the next few days.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Near Lurker on 01 May 2019, 20:11
Even probably doesn't even know about the engagement, I'd bet.

I doubt it.  I don't think Dora would have told him about Bubbles if things weren't at least that warm between them.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: brasca on 01 May 2019, 20:17
To everyone who thought the drama would be Faye struggling to stay on the wagon here comes the twist.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: sitnspin on 01 May 2019, 20:26
It is unreasonable to expect your ex to stop going to places they always went to before just because you broke up. It is, however, perfectly reasonable to ask them to not interact with you while you are both there.

She made it clear she doesn't want to talk to you, go away, Sven.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: SomeCanadianWeirdo on 01 May 2019, 21:02
Anyone else start readimg this strip and initially wonder who this woman Faye was talking to was? 
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Is it cold in here? on 01 May 2019, 21:48
Even probably doesn't even know about the engagement, I'd bet.

I doubt it.  I don't think Dora would have told him about Bubbles if things weren't at least that warm between them.

There were steps to heal the Svenectomy (https://www.questionablecontent.net/view.php?comic=3024)
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: brasca on 01 May 2019, 21:48
Anyone else start readimg this strip and initially wonder who this woman Faye was talking to was?

When I first viewed this on my phone I couldn’t tell who Faye was talking to until I magnified the screen.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: OldGoat on 01 May 2019, 22:24
Anyone else start readimg this strip and initially wonder who this woman Faye was talking to was?
You are not alone.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: ihaveavoice on 01 May 2019, 22:49
Sven's hair looks a lot more voluminous than I remember it.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Penquin47 on 01 May 2019, 23:02
Daaaaaaaaaang I like Sven's current look.

It's entirely possible Sven doesn't know about the engagement yet because it happened a couple hours ago and Dora's been busy shopping for rings and hanging out with her friends and she was gonna call Sven and her parents tonight/tomorrow.  I can even see Dora waiting until after the celebration to tell Sven specifically to avoid the awkwardness of having to tell either Faye or Sven they can't come or having to deal with them at the same time when Faye is already going to be struggling just from being at the bar.  Didn't work, but she tried.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: BenRG on 01 May 2019, 23:18
Wow! How long has it been since we last saw Sven? I think it was when he and Dora promised each other that they'd at least try to have something resembling a healthy adult relationship and they sort of also admitted that they wanted to not have this simmering suspicion and resentment between them.

I suppose I can't blame Faye for her reaction. There was nothing about her relationship with Sven that wasn't a screw up that both of them did literally all they could to make more hurtful. That said, a long time has passed and there's been an awful lot of water under the bridge. Maybe the time has come to just close the book and get back to being 'two people who know each other because of having Dora in common'.

Does Sven know about Dora and Tai. I'd say 'yes' because there's a sort of thing as a 'phone and it therefore would have taken Dora maybe a minute to tell him whilst she and Tai were haggling with the budget ring vendor.

To everyone who thought the drama would be Faye struggling to stay on the wagon here comes the twist.

I honestly don't think it's going to go that way. Sven doesn't have that sort of power over Faye. He's an annoying jerk sometimes but that fiasco way back when isn't a major thing in Faye's emotional life anymore. Actually, it wouldn't surprise me if this segment of the arc will be Faye realising that Sven is an annoying jerk but really that's all he is and he isn't in any way crushing her heart anymore; indeed he hasn't for a very long time.

Whether that is also the case for Sven I have no idea. However, I strongly suspect that an ironic part of him thinks that Faye rejecting him an then getting into a relationship with a female combat android probably 'figures'. If anything, I wonder if he's going to instead pester her about Hannelore's whereabouts and status.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: cybersmurf on 02 May 2019, 00:14
I think Sven is nothing more than a nuisance for Faye. Amidst being in a bar and the ensuing temptation, plus the burrito incident, Sven is just "the icing on the cake". Faye's fed up with him, and I think she'll just ignore him and get back to the others and say "yo dora, your jerk of a brother is around"
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Case on 02 May 2019, 00:45
Ancillary Justice Reference.

Nice  :laugh:


Go away, Svorn!
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: cybersmurf on 02 May 2019, 01:23
is Dora's brother Faye's svarn enemy?
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: dutchrvl on 02 May 2019, 04:41
It is unreasonable to expect your ex to stop going to places they always went to before just because you broke up. It is, however, perfectly reasonable to ask them to not interact with you while you are both there.

She made it clear she doesn't want to talk to you, go away, Sven.

Expecting him to not talk to her if she doesn't want to: yes, very reasonable
Wanting him gone when it's his sister's engagement party: not reasonable at all, especially since Faye and Sven were basically in an okay place already anyway
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: snufflebottoms on 02 May 2019, 04:51
It is unreasonable to expect your ex to stop going to places they always went to before just because you broke up. It is, however, perfectly reasonable to ask them to not interact with you while you are both there.

She made it clear she doesn't want to talk to you, go away, Sven.

Expecting him to not talk to her if she doesn't want to: yes, very reasonable
Wanting him gone when it's his sister's engagement party: not reasonable at all, especially since Faye and Sven were basically in an okay place already anyway

Yeah. It's like okay his question about Bubbles is a little rude but I feel like most of the other characters get WAY more leeway for being total assholes than Sven does for behavior that is not as severe. Also, she could have just said hi and walked away or even just ignored him. Could you imagine, running into a person you dated but weren't official with for what a few months? and they fold their arms like a child shout no, no , no, and then say they're going into the bathroom, you have x minutes to disappear?
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: cybersmurf on 02 May 2019, 05:16
The whole Sven situation probably would be different, if he actually were there for the engagement party.
This issues present - IMHO - are as follows:

Faye probably just reacted in a way without thinking whether it's a good way to react. I don't think Sven is more than a nuisance here, the only thing that may happen is Faye just leaving.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: TheEvilDog on 02 May 2019, 05:23
On the one hand, Faye's history with Sven certainly does warrant her making a quick exit stage left. She's been hurt by him and in several ways, Sven will never change.

But on the other hand;
- the bar they're in is a public place. And unless Faye was in the restroom for a long time, Sven was probably there before her. So she really can't dictate where he should be or shouldn't be.
- Sven is Dora's brother, and if he knows that she and Tai got engaged, Dora probably told him immediately, if not by calling around or by phone, hence why Sven wasn't sitting with them. If he does know, he's got just as much of a right to be there to celebrate as Faye does. And if he doesn't know, well that's just awkward.
- Faye is giving Sven way too much power. She had moved on, she had a loving relationship with Angus and she's now in a loving relationship with Bubbles. She's moved on, or at Faye thought she had.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: cybersmurf on 02 May 2019, 05:46
<snip>
- Faye is giving Sven way too much power. She had moved on, she had a loving relationship with Angus and she's now in a loving relationship with Bubbles. She's moved on, or at Faye thought she had.

Yeah, my thought, too. Like a "what could possibly go wrong? oh, that." moment.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Welu on 02 May 2019, 06:00
Sven! I know there's been a lot of... Stuff, with Sven but he's one of those characters I really enjoy watching.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: traroth on 02 May 2019, 06:24
Ancillary Justice Reference.

Nice  :laugh:


Go away, Svorn!

I missed that one. Thank you!
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: traroth on 02 May 2019, 06:26
is Dora's brother Faye's svarn enemy?

Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: shanejayell on 02 May 2019, 07:00
Whoelse had a "WHO?" reaction, then "Ohhhh...." ?  *lol*
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Theta9 on 02 May 2019, 07:30
Whoelse had a "WHO?" reaction, then "Ohhhh...." ?  *lol*
Jeez, am I the only one here who recognized Sven right away?
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: cesium133 on 02 May 2019, 07:46
That's odd, I don't remember seeing Seven in today's comic.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: cybersmurf on 02 May 2019, 08:01
Whoelse had a "WHO?" reaction, then "Ohhhh...." ?  *lol*
Jeez, am I the only one here who recognized Sven right away?

Nope. I was just like "dang, it's been THAT long?" due to the obvious changes in art style. And the changes ran rather subtly over the recent years.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: TheEvilDog on 02 May 2019, 08:03
Whoelse had a "WHO?" reaction, then "Ohhhh...." ?  *lol*
Jeez, am I the only one here who recognized Sven right away?
Nope, I saw the glasses, I saw the hair colour, I saw he was coming out of the MENS room and bam! Knew it was Sven.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: traroth on 02 May 2019, 08:16
Whoelse had a "WHO?" reaction, then "Ohhhh...." ?  *lol*
Jeez, am I the only one here who recognized Sven right away?

You're not alone either...
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: sitnspin on 02 May 2019, 10:27
I recognised him right off. He looks the same. And even without that, context gave away who he is.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Mr Intrepid on 02 May 2019, 12:31
Wonder if Bubbles notices Faye being upset, comes over, and asks  "Is this man bothering you?"

And Sven faints dead away.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Stoutfellow on 02 May 2019, 13:22
At least he's abandoned the man-bun.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: cybersmurf on 02 May 2019, 14:34
At least he's abandoned the man-bun.

For now.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: hedgie on 02 May 2019, 14:58
It'll still be there… waiting.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: snufflebottoms on 02 May 2019, 15:50
On the one hand, Faye's history with Sven certainly does warrant her making a quick exit stage left. She's been hurt by him and in several ways, Sven will never change.

But on the other hand;
- the bar they're in is a public place. And unless Faye was in the restroom for a long time, Sven was probably there before her. So she really can't dictate where he should be or shouldn't be.
- Sven is Dora's brother, and if he knows that she and Tai got engaged, Dora probably told him immediately, if not by calling around or by phone, hence why Sven wasn't sitting with them. If he does know, he's got just as much of a right to be there to celebrate as Faye does. And if he doesn't know, well that's just awkward.
- Faye is giving Sven way too much power. She had moved on, she had a loving relationship with Angus and she's now in a loving relationship with Bubbles. She's moved on, or at Faye thought she had.

I agree with all of this except that Sven will never change. He's already had development through out the comic. Faye has a right not to want to be friends with him sure but she cant except to never run into him when she's friends with his sister and they live in the same town.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Penquin47 on 02 May 2019, 19:38
Well, that changed quickly.  Glad to see it, though. :D
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: snufflebottoms on 02 May 2019, 19:43
Well, that changed quickly.  Glad to see it, though. :D

Same. I hope he gets an arc after this. Sven's one of my favorites.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Case on 02 May 2019, 19:59
'My Pickup Truck's my TherapistTM' - It answers questions with counter-questions, asserts you're in denial whenever you disagree and kicks you out as soon as you've hit maximum confusion?  :psyduck:



Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Mr Intrepid on 02 May 2019, 20:01
Faye seems to less hostile today as opposed to yesterday.  I'd be nice if Faye and Sven wound up in a relationship like Marten and Dora have now.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: shanejayell on 02 May 2019, 20:04
"My ex-girlfriend is dating a robot" would likely be his next hit.

Then Faye murders him. ;)
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: snufflebottoms on 02 May 2019, 20:08
"My ex-girlfriend is dating a robot" would likely be his next hit.

Then Faye murders him. ;)

The Sven Angus duet
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: jwhouk on 02 May 2019, 20:21
A point that only our timeline people will care about: this would seem to verify that we're only a few years off from current time in this universe. That is, it's probably sometime around the last five-six years in the  QCverse.

This is because Spotify didn't become ubiquitous in the US until a few years ago.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: shanejayell on 02 May 2019, 20:23
"My girlfriend and my truck both left me... then they hooked up."
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Scarlet Manuka on 02 May 2019, 20:51
"My girlfriend and my truck both left me... then they hooked up."
Needs to be punchier. "My girlfriend left me - for my truck."
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Tova on 02 May 2019, 21:11
"My girlfriend and my truck both left me... then they hooked up."
Needs to be punchier. "My girlfriend left me - for my truck."

*ahem* Without ditching the pun, preferably.  :claireface:
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: brasca on 02 May 2019, 22:06
Well, that changed quickly.  Glad to see it, though. :D

Yes, negativity gets tiresome, but we're just 5 strips away from the 4000th so we're all expecting something dramatic. 

I'm hoping Hannelore will walk through the door. 
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: BenRG on 02 May 2019, 23:38
I'm not surprised that Sven got Faye talking. As I posted yesterday, in the end, Faye got over it a long time ago and once she was past her initial reflex reaction, I had no doubt that she'd be okay with talking to him. It helps that he's been making an effort to be a better guy of late (something with which I believe that Hannelore had a significant off-screen role).

Faye has remembered one thing she doesn't like about him though: The fact that he's a success because of his ability to make people treat random rubbish that he threw together in a morning as art!

"My ex-girlfriend is dating a robot" would likely be his next hit.

It's interesting that Sven called Bubbles 'the big red lady'. Just a reminder that he doesn't have a prejudiced bone in his body: He hasn't reacted to Bubbles' species at all.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Tyr on 03 May 2019, 00:49
I'm kinda hoping Faye gets Sven to wait here for a sec, then goes and asks Dora if she wants her brother to join the party, since the assbutt's already in the bar, anyway.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: traroth on 03 May 2019, 05:17
I'm kinda hoping Faye gets Sven to wait here for a sec, then goes and asks Dora if she wants her brother to join the party, since the assbutt's already in the bar, anyway.

You think Sven's presence in the bar has nothing to do with Dora and Tai being engaged?
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: TheEvilDog on 03 May 2019, 05:27
It's possible. While Dora has reversed her Svenectomy there's still some bridge building that needs to go on.

Now maybe Dora did invite Sven to the bar, knowing he'd be there already.

But it's also possible that Dora and Tai called their friends for a celebratory drink and are choosing to announce to their respective families in a more formal manner.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Case on 03 May 2019, 05:35
It's also possible that musicians and bars are entangled.

Actually pretty sure about that one, come to think of it ...
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Akima on 03 May 2019, 05:43
A truck therapist would need 4WD to explore the swamp of Sven's subconscious.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: cybersmurf on 03 May 2019, 05:45
It's also possible that musicians and bars are entangled.

Actually pretty sure about that one, come to think of it ...

With Brun there the bar most likely is the Revelation, but is it the same as the Birthday Karaoke event (https://questionablecontent.net/view.php?comic=1072)?
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Marco on 03 May 2019, 05:46
"My girlfriend and my truck both left me... then they hooked up."
Needs to be punchier. "My girlfriend left me - for my truck."
The weird part is that the idea isn't even completely original. There's a brazilian country song called "Fuscão Preto" (Black Beetle) where a guy founds out his girlfriend downtown, drinkin'n'smokin' in a black Wolkswagen. Now that I think of it, the song never states that there is a human driving the Beetle...
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Marco on 03 May 2019, 07:28
Also, human-machine relatioships are not a novelty for Sven: he wrote "She's Pretty (But She ain't no John Deere)"

https://questionablecontent.net/view.php?comic=1073 (https://questionablecontent.net/view.php?comic=1073)

Knowing that most of his songs are based on personal experiences, I wonder if that's the case with this one...
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Theta9 on 03 May 2019, 07:31
Well, that changed quickly.  Glad to see it, though. :D
My thought as well. We went from "I SAID I'M NOT DEALING WITH YOU" straight to the end of a friendly catching-up conversation. I think I have whiplash now.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: MarigoldSkye on 03 May 2019, 10:08
Well, that changed quickly.  Glad to see it, though. :D
My thought as well. We went from "I SAID I'M NOT DEALING WITH YOU" straight to the end of a friendly catching-up conversation. I think I have whiplash now.

Yea, kinda felt like a scene went missing there...
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: OldGoat on 03 May 2019, 11:13
Wonder if Bubbles notices Faye being upset, comes over, and asks  "Is this man bothering you?"

And Sven faints dead runs away.
like a bat outta hell.

Fixed it for you.  ;)
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Pilchard123 on 03 May 2019, 11:17
He'll be gone when the morning comes?
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Mr_Rose on 03 May 2019, 12:07
He'll be gone when the morning comes?
A’yup, lease paid off, accounts cleared out, already three counties over and still acceleratin’…
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Cornelius on 03 May 2019, 13:24
But when the day is done...
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: DSL on 03 May 2019, 13:24
Human-machine relationships are no stranger to country music, IRW. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uWu4aynBK7E) Any subtext interpretation here is arrived at independently of the one in my head.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Tova on 05 May 2019, 02:32
So, I've just tasted a beer that describes itself as "American IPA."

I understand the adverse reaction to IPA here now. Yikes.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Mr_Rose on 05 May 2019, 04:50
So, I've just tasted a beer that describes itself as "American IPA."

I understand the adverse reaction to IPA here now. Yikes.
Ah, yes, “American IPA” is a category all it’s own; there has been a trend in recent years for US microbreweries to compete with each other to brew the hoppiest beer they can and they are now even at the point of advertising the variety and flavour of their hops in favour of the actual beer which is amazing to me. And horrifying since the original IPAs were specifically brewed so that the hops didn’t overpower the beer flavour, since the point was to prevent the beer spoiling on the long trip to India, rather than to create a new flavour, so these guys are effectively adding more and more antiseptic to their product for no other reason than because they can; I seriously worry for the long term health of the persistent imbiber’s gut flora.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: cesium133 on 05 May 2019, 06:31
One explanation I've heard for American IPAs is that since most U.S. microbreweries came from amateur brewers becoming professional (prior to 1978 it was illegal to home-brew beer), many inexperienced brewers started with IPAs because if they screwed something up in the brewing process they could put so many hops in it that nobody would be able to tell that the beer tasted bad. All they would taste was the hops.

Don't know how true that explanation is, but it makes some sense.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Cornelius on 05 May 2019, 07:04
I don't usually brew IPA, but I went to have a look at my recipe catalogue. American IPA recipes come in at thrice the bitterness of Belgian IPA. The only thing they seem to have in common in experience, is the colour. British IPA seems to be somewhere in the middle between the two.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: oddtail on 05 May 2019, 09:12
This explains so much. I do not associate IPAs with heavy bitterness. Reading that IPAs are super-hoppy and extremely bitter, I was wondering whether my taste buds are dead, or whether American beers *other* than IPAs have no hint of bitterness at all, making IPAs seem very bitter in comparison...
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: OldGoat on 05 May 2019, 20:44
I seriously worry for the long term health of the persistent imbiber’s gut flora.
"Shut up, Liver.  You're fine."
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Tova on 05 May 2019, 21:12
So, I've just tasted a beer that describes itself as "American IPA."

I understand the adverse reaction to IPA here now. Yikes.
Ah, yes, “American IPA” is a category all it’s own; there has been a trend in recent years for US microbreweries to compete with each other to brew the hoppiest beer they can and they are now even at the point of advertising the variety and flavour of their hops in favour of the actual beer which is amazing to me. And horrifying since the original IPAs were specifically brewed so that the hops didn’t overpower the beer flavour, since the point was to prevent the beer spoiling on the long trip to India, rather than to create a new flavour, so these guys are effectively adding more and more antiseptic to their product for no other reason than because they can; I seriously worry for the long term health of the persistent imbiber’s gut flora.

I totally lost your train of thought there, until I got to the end where I guess you’re saying chronic alcohol is bad for gut flora? Which I guess is true, it’s not the first thing I think of when I worry about persistent imbibers, and it’s not just (or even particularly) IPAs, but otherwise yeeeah?
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Akima on 05 May 2019, 22:46
I think Mr. Rose's concern is that the extra hops added to the original IPAs acted as a "disinfectant" to prevent the beer going bad on the long sea-voyage from the UK to India, and that modern American IPAs have even more hops, or "disinfectant", that might poison the drinker's gut flora bacteria. I do not know about the action of hops in IPAs, or whether their action is a "disinfectant" that might affect drinkers' gut flora, so I cannot judge his argument.

Can a 2.5m tall, red, statuesque battle-bot really sidle? Sneaking isn't really Bubbles's style (https://www.questionablecontent.net/view.php?comic=3564). Or is it Sven who's supposed to be sidling? And did Jeph forget the whites of Bubbles's eyes in the second panel?
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Penquin47 on 05 May 2019, 23:43
Sven's the sidler.  He approached Bubbles to thank her for her service.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: Scarlet Manuka on 06 May 2019, 00:51
And did Jeph forget the whites of Bubbles's eyes in the second panel?
No, it's an art style he uses for effect (note that Sven's eyes are the same); see here (https://www.questionablecontent.net/view.php?comic=3983) or here (https://www.questionablecontent.net/view.php?comic=3938) or here (https://www.questionablecontent.net/view.php?comic=3854) for some recent examples.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: OldGoat on 06 May 2019, 21:19
Can a 2.5m tall, red, statuesque battle-bot really sidle? Sneaking isn't really Bubbles's style (https://www.questionablecontent.net/view.php?comic=3564). Or is it Sven who's supposed to be sidling? And did Jeph forget the whites of Bubbles's eyes in the second panel?
She can if she wants to, if her training was anything like that of a former US Army Ranger I had the pleasure of working with.  While not quite a big as Bubbs he could blend into the shadows and slither on his belly like a reptile if it suited his purposes.  Bubbles has several arrows in her quiver.
Title: Re: WCDT Strips 3991-3995 (29 April - 3 May 2019)
Post by: JoeCovenant on 07 May 2019, 06:54
And did Jeph forget the whites of Bubbles's eyes in the second panel?
No, it's an art style he uses for effect (note that Sven's eyes are the same); see here (https://www.questionablecontent.net/view.php?comic=3983) or here (https://www.questionablecontent.net/view.php?comic=3938) or here (https://www.questionablecontent.net/view.php?comic=3854) for some recent examples.

I audibly gasped when I saw that frame, 'cos it's how I draw eyes in whatever wee strips I sometimes do!