Uncovering the Unchanged in DC Rebirth: The Untouched Pre-52 Canon

The world of DC Comics has undergone numerous changes, particularly after the Crisis on Infinite Earths in the 1980s. The Crisis led to a new timeline known as the New 52, which, despite its transformative elements, often resulted in the erasure of important characters and plotlines. Enter DC Rebirth, a rebranding and revitalization of the DC universe aimed at restoring key narratives. However, not everything from the pre-52 era has been restored, leaving some characters and plot developments untouched. This article explores which elements of the pre-52 canon have remained un-retconned and the enduring impact of the NU52 era.

Retcon Hiccups: A Decade of Stolen Years

During the transitional period of Wally West's stolen years, significant events and character developments were erased from the canon. As Wally quoted in his dialogue with Wally West Jr. in the Neal Adams-penned Flash: Recharge, ten years of their lives were stolen from them. This absence has had a ripple effect on a number of characters, including Barry Allen and Wally West's children, Linda's children, and even their roles within the Titans.

The Legacy of Untouched Developments

Specific character developments and plot points from the pre-52 era were completely erased, making them a mystery in the comic universe. For example, Wally and Linda's children have not been mentioned since Barry 'rescued' Wally. Similarly, Roy Harper's daughter Lian and the Titans' Dolphin and Ceridian lack memories of their parents. This absence of knowledge and continuity has created a void in the narrative.

The Ongoing Process of Restoration

While DC Rebirth has succeeded in restoring many elements of the pre-52 timeline, a few key areas have yet to be addressed. Notable examples include the revival of characters such as J'onn J'onzz and M'gann M'orzz. Their absence from recent stories is a testament to the ongoing efforts to restore the old canon, but there is still much work to be done.

Jon Kent: A Bright Spot in the Rebirth Era

Among the revitalized characters, Jon Kent has emerged as a bright spot in the DC Rebirth era. His introduction and development have provided a sense of continuity and respect for the pre-52 canon. As a son of Superman and Lois Lane, Jon Kent's story is an important part of the broader DC universe, and his presence has been well-received by fans. His narrative adds depth to the ongoing narrative of the DC heroes and maintains a connection to the past.

Implications for Future Storytelling

The un-retconned elements of the pre-52 canon continue to shape the direction of future storylines in the DC universe. Writers and creators must navigate the existing narrative while also building new arcs that incorporate these enduring developments. The integration of these characters and storylines into new narratives will determine how well the pre-52 canon is retained and preserved in the future.

As DC Rebirth continues to evolve, it is clear that the challenges of retcon and canon preservation remain. While progress has been made in restoring the impacted narratives, the un-retconned elements of the pre-52 era serve as a reminder of the complex process of maintaining continuity in a constantly evolving universe.