All-Star Superman, crafted by Grant Morrison and Frank Quitely, reimagines Superman’s final days as he grapples with mortality after a solar radiation overdose. The series explores profound themes of legacy, compassion, and humanity’s potential through Superman’s heroic acts.
This curated list highlights 25 iconic quotes that capture the emotional depth and thematic richness of his journey.
Why, thanks, Lois. I don’t know where my self-esteem would be without you
(Issue #2: “Superman’s Forbidden Room”)
Clark Kent
Demonstrating Clark’s self-deprecating humor and his grounding relationship with Lois amid cosmic struggles.
Alone, in front of the TV
(Issue #2: “Superman’s Forbidden Room”)
Lois Lane
Lois’ sharp wit underscores her role as Superman’s equal, balancing his idealism with pragmatic realism.
You stole that necklace
(Issue #3: “The Gospel According to Lex Luthor”)
Superman
Superman confronts Atlas and Samson, showcasing his unwavering commitment to justice even against mythical beings.
Don’t you see? We couldn’t fight the Ultra-Sphinx without help, so we let it chase us here
(Issue #3: “The Gospel According to Lex Luthor”)
Atlas
Reveals the flawed logic of ancient heroes, contrasting their recklessness with Superman’s principled heroism.
But we meant no harm to Lois, I swear to living Zeus
(Issue #3: “The Gospel According to Lex Luthor”)
Samson
Highlights the desperation of fallen heroes, emphasizing Superman’s moral authority over even legends.
And I swear too. If she dies, you’re both going to the Phantom Zone
(Issue #3: “The Gospel According to Lex Luthor”)
Superman
Superman’s protective fury for Lois reveals his human vulnerability beneath godlike power.
Question: What happens when the irresistible force meets the immovable object?
(Issue #3: “The Gospel According to Lex Luthor”)
Ultra-Sphinx
The riddle symbolizes life’s paradoxes, setting up Superman’s unconventional solution.
They surrender
(Issue #3: “The Gospel According to Lex Luthor”)
Superman
Superman subverts conflict through wisdom, embodying hope over brute force.
I know you’re behind me, Steve. So whatever you’re doing, just st—Ah!
(Issue #4: “The Superman/Muhammad Ali Fight”)
Clark Kent
Clark’s humility shines as he endures workplace ridicule, masking his true heroism.
I missed you, Kent. You’re comedy gold
(Issue #4: “The Superman/Muhammad Ali Fight”)
Steve Lombard
Lombard’s mockery contrasts Clark’s quiet dignity, reinforcing Superman’s dual-identity sacrifice.
That’s gotta be a little embarrassing
(Issue #4: “The Superman/Muhammad Ali Fight”)
Jimmy Olsen
Jimmy’s observation highlights Clark’s intentional humility, humanizing the superhero mythos.
After everything we’ve done, you still show us kindness
(Issue #5: “The Never-Ending Battle”)
Bar-El
Bar-El’s remorse underscores Superman’s capacity to inspire redemption in fellow Kryptonians.
My Earth parents taught me forgiveness. Humanity has a lot to teach us
(Issue #5: “The Never-Ending Battle”)
Superman
Superman credits his humanity to Earth, affirming his moral core over Kryptonian legacy.
Kal-El, son of Krypton, I’m proud to call you my kin
(Issue #5: “The Never-Ending Battle”)
Bar-El
Bar-El’s acceptance signifies Superman’s success in bridging two worlds through compassion.
There’s a way to save us both. Surely you’ve thought through it
(Issue #5: “The Never-Ending Battle”)
Bar-El
Bar-El’s trust in Superman cements their bond, elevating sacrifice over survival.
But your own time is short. Do what you must. Send us to the Phantom Zone
(Issue #5: “The Never-Ending Battle”)
Bar-El
Bar-El’s selflessness mirrors Superman’s ethos, turning tragedy into an act of grace.
Oh, your poor face
(Issue #10: “Neverending”)
Lois Lane
Lois’ tenderness humanizes Superman’s physical decline, anchoring cosmic stakes in intimacy.
No one can repair the sun but me, Lois. I’m turning into pure energy
(Issue #10: “Neverending”)
Superman
Superman embraces his fate, transforming sacrifice into a literal fusion with hope.
That’s all you’ve ever needed
(Issue #10: “Neverending”)
Lois Lane
Lois affirms Superman’s essence: not power, but unwavering resolve to protect.
I really think this is it… Third time lucky. This is going to change everything
(Issue #10: “Neverending”)
Superman
Superman’s optimism while crafting a cancer cure epitomizes his legacy of relentless hope.
They will join you in the sun, Kal-El. They will stumble, they will fall
(Issue #12: “Superman in Excelsis”)
Jor-El (via vision)
Jor-El’s prophecy frames humanity’s potential, tying Superman’s sacrifice to collective evolution.
In time you will help them accomplish wonders
(Issue #12: “Superman in Excelsis”)
Jor-El (via vision)
Affirms Superman’s role as a catalyst for human progress beyond his physical form.
Here the choice is simple. To remain at play within consciousness… or face down evil
(Issue #12: “Superman in Excelsis”)
Superman
Superman’s final choice crystallizes heroism as active compassion over passive existence.
I love you, Lois Lane, until the end of time
(Issue #12: “Superman in Excelsis”)
Superman
A transcendent declaration, merging personal love with eternal legacy.
We don’t have much time
(Issue #5: “The Never-Ending Battle”)
Superman
A recurring motif, emphasizing urgency and mortality amid Superman’s greatest acts.
