Walt Kelly, 1972, We Have Met the Enemy and He Is Us. Simon and Shuster. This book is in two parts. Part one concerns pollution and our collective responsibility for it. The book title is probably the most well known of Kelly's aphorisms. The concept seems a bit outdated, as we now recognize corporate responsibility for most pollution, but we are all implicated to some degree. This part of the book takes place chiefly in the Fort Mudge dump, where a pig and piglets ply their trade. We also get a glimpse into the workings of the Okefenokee volunteer fire department, or lack thereof.
The second half of the book provides an amusing look at the Nixon White House. A hyena, easily recognized as Spiro Agnew, an eagle representing AG John Mitchell, and J Edgar Hoover, portrayed as a bulldog, invade the swamp. A highly sensitive computer, secretive paper dolls, and prescient wire taps ensue, along with the usual Kelly confusion. The only Pogo book with two completely separate political sections. Also noteworthy for its emphasis on pollution. NOT the only one featuring the Agnew hyena.
My favorite character is the computer. Not really. It's the hyena.
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