Despite the series' shortcomings, the great arc of Clark's ascension/Lex's disintegration remained a compelling reason to watch.   Now, however, Lex is gone, along with Jonathan, Martha, Lionel, and so, it seems, the show's reason for existence.  Though it retains the title, plainly, it's no longer "Smallville" in tone or content.  What was once a series about Coming of Age (or, if you prefer, Fathers and Sons or even The Making of an Archenemy) is now a conglomeration of diverse and cynically placed elements from the DC Comics universe, congealing over a twenty-something soap opera with more in common with Beverly Hills 90210 than Superman.  The main character dithers over his destiny, having become a supporting player in his own show.  As Alex Wainer writes, "Producers kept the show running in place instead of letting him follow the hero's path--all for the sake of the CW having a show that hit the right demographics."

Stats about Smallville published in USA Today reveal:  a series consistently running dead last.   Apparently, somewhere along the way, for some reason, there was a surge in viewership.  Evidently, somebody's watching.  But why?  

Superman has always prospered as he reflects changing cultural mores.  Currently, American society seems stuck in a nether world between irresponsibility and responsibility, immaturity and maturity.  Adolescence (a distinctly western phenomenon unheard of in underdeveloped nations) has surged deep into adulthood.  Young adults have a hard time getting off the ground, soaring into marriage and career.   In such a milieu, should we be surprised when even Superman can't grow up? 

I used to think my dad looked funny wearing dark pants and white socks.  In fact, he was simply mature enough not to care what I thought.   He liked what he wore; it was comfortable and it fit.  Maybe "flights and tights" are just another expression of a maturity we want to push as far down the road as possible.  But as the apostle wrote, "When I became a man, I put away childish things" (1 Corinthians 13:11).  Sooner later, super or not, a man's got to grow up.

Season 9 of Smallville premieres Friday, September 25, 2009 on the CW. Check your local listings for times. Seasons 1 through 8 are available on DVD.

Gary D. Robinson is a preacher, writer, and Superman fan living in Xenia, Ohio.  Check out his website, "Look!  Up in the Sky!" (www.garydrobinson.com).