Welcome to the compelling universe of What We Mean By Yesterday: Vol. 1, published by Dark Horse Manga. This gripping narrative revolves around Bruce Barnes, a schoolteacher whose life spirals into chaos. The story captures the essence of a man pushed to the brink by the relentless struggles he faces in his daily life. Through a blend of dark humor and raw emotion, it poses a provocative question: if Bruce is the good guy, then who exactly is the villain?

The journey begins on what seems to be just another dreadful day for Bruce. His students, a rowdy and disrespectful bunch, take pleasure in making his life miserable. However, this day is particularly grim. Following a heated encounter with a student, Bruce seeks solace in the break room, hoping for a moment of reprieve. Here, he encounters a colleague who offers him a cigarette, unaware of the chaos that lies ahead. The cigarette is laced with amphetamines, catapulting Bruce into an unexpected adventure.

As Bruce smokes the laced cigarette, he embarks on a surreal journey, riding his metaphorical “rage snake.” This wild ride takes him from the confines of the classroom to realms beyond imagination. He finds himself engaging in a series of impulsive acts, each more outrageous than the last. The narrative is a rollercoaster of emotions, featuring intense moments of fighting, racing, and even tripping through various fantastical scenarios.

What We Mean By Yesterday is not just a story; it is an exploration of the human condition during trying times. The narrative is reminiscent of cult classics like Falling Down and Breaking Bad, both of which delve into the darker sides of individuals pushed past their limits. The manga presents a unique perspective on the concept of a “bad trip,” transforming it into a gripping tale of madness and revenge.

This remarkable work started as a daily comic strip, shared on Marra’s Instagram account (@benjamin_marra). Initially conceived as an exercise in faster, looser drawing, it quickly blossomed into one of the most popular webcomics of the pandemic era, attracting over 20,000 daily readers. The black-and-white illustrations throughout the volume add a striking visual element, enhancing the overall reading experience.

As you delve into the pages of What We Mean By Yesterday: Vol. 1, prepare for an engaging narrative that intertwines humor with horror. This manga invites readers to question their perceptions of good and evil while experiencing the exhilarating highs and devastating lows of Bruce Barnes’s tumultuous life. Join Bruce on this incredible journey and discover what it truly means to confront the chaos of existence.