Because he doesn't want to get shot.
Why does Robin wear such a colorful suit?
Because Batman doesn't want to get shot.
Okay, here’s my attempt at a "Joke Poo" version:
Joke Poo: The Gardener’s Dilemma
Why does the head gardener always plant so many thorny rose bushes around the vegetable patch?
Because he doesn’t want the deer to eat the crops.
Why does his assistant keep scattering birdseed inside the vegetable patch?
Because the head gardener really doesn’t want to get deer.
Alright, let’s break down this bat-tastic bit of humor!
Joke Dissection:
- Setup: The joke establishes a seemingly logical question about Batman’s dark suit, implying a strategic reason.
- Punchline 1: The first punchline provides an expected (though simplistic) answer, connecting darkness to self-preservation.
- Twist: The second question mirrors the first, leading the audience to expect a similar logical (and possibly contrasting) explanation for Robin’s suit.
- Punchline 2 (The Real Punchline): The real punchline subverts expectations. It reveals the true (and darkly humorous) reason: Robin is essentially a moving target, a distraction shielding Batman. The humor lies in the implied disregard for Robin’s safety and Batman’s ruthlessly pragmatic approach to crime-fighting. The joke leverages Batman’s reputation for preparation and a willingness to do whatever it takes.
- Core Elements:
- Batman: A symbol of justice, darkness, and a certain grim pragmatism.
- Robin: A symbol of youthful idealism and, in this context, expendability.
- Dark Humor: Relies on the implied danger and lack of concern for Robin’s well-being.
- Expectation Subversion: The second question is designed to trick the audience into thinking they’re getting another straightforward explanation.
Comedic Enrichment & New Humor:
Okay, let’s spin off some humor based on these elements, using some Batman trivia:
Witty Observation:
It’s interesting how Batman’s utility belt has a place for everything: Batarangs, grappling hook, smoke pellets… yet no tiny little Kevlar vest for his sidekick. You’d think Wayne Enterprises could have whipped something up, but maybe that wouldn’t be very useful if Robin actually was wearing something bulletproof and Batman didn’t know that it was Robin that was the one wearing it so he ends up shooting Robin because he actually does have something bullet proof on now?
New Joke:
Why did Batman install a revolving door in the Batcave?
He needed a way to dispose of Robins, and a normal door was too slow. What’s a crimefighting genius to do?
Amusing "Did You Know?"
Did you know that in the original comics, Robin’s costume was inspired by images of a robin redbreast in N.C. Wyeth’s illustrations in the 1939 edition of The Adventures of Robin Hood. Batman figured if you’re going to sacrifice someone, at least make him look picturesque and ready to be put on a Valentine’s Day card.