Warning: contains spoilers for Wonder Woman: Black & Gold #4!
The late 1960s and early 1970s were a weird time for Wonder Woman in DC Comics, and not one that's fondly ed. The "Mod" era for the Goddess of Truth took away her powers and saw her take up a slew of new jobs, including being a spy and a boutique owner. Now, in Wonder Woman: Black & Gold #4 this era has returned - in the modern day.
Wonder Woman's mod era is one of her most highly criticized by fans. It definitely appeared very experimental compared to her other comics. By the late '70s and early '80s, a new golden era would arise for Diana, yet the Mod era has made a habit of returning every so often to rub her nose in this period of uncertainty. Wonder Woman is currently celebrating her 80th anniversary and this anthology series has been paying tribute to her many eras, adventures, and teammates. There was already a story that took place during her time as a spy, but now, Wonder Woman's past is creeping into her present in a much more disturbing way.
The story "Whatever Happened to Cathy Perkins?!" has the creative team of Sina Grace, Leo Romero, Pat Brosseau, Bixie Mathieu, and Jamie S. Rich. Within it, Wonder Woman is able to revisit "Mod-ly Modern," the store that she owned. The title refers to another return within the story - Catherine Perkins. Cathy used to be a member in the gang known as Them!, which was led by a villain named Top Hat. Cathy was a young runaway that Diana reunited with her family. She was also given a job at Diana's boutique. Now, both Cathy and the boutique are back in Wonder Woman's life - and so are the Goddess of Truth's old foes and lack of powers.
Cathy's story has taken a tragic turn since her appearances a hindrance to Wonder Woman since the magic necklace Cathy wears even turns the Goddess of Truth into the version of herself from this prior era - Diana realizes what's happening, but once again has to face unusual foes without her powers.
This story focuses on the importance of continuing to live, even when trying to hold onto the past seems better. It places the focus on the strength of Diana and Cathy's friendship, bringing out the best parts of Wonder Woman's Mod era. While it also gives nods to some of the strangest - and worst - parts of the era, those take a backseat to Wonder Woman's ability to inspire and save those she loves. This comic also explores the non-powered aspects of Diana that make her a hero. She is always ready to lend a hand, even if she is at a disadvantage, and she will always try to help her friends make the best decisions they can. She is a great friend and a great advisor. She is capable of facing the darkest truths and bringing out the hope within them. Wonder Woman may be reliving her worst era, but she's doing it in the best way.
