Only Mostly Human

[deckardcanine]

In some works with anthropomorphism, characters
Act fully human despite their appearance,
Which leads many viewers to ask why the artist
Did not make them human. Just where’s the coherence?

It could be the author is planning to throw in
Some animal gags when they’re not too expected.
If that never happens, perhaps things have changed
So the plan’s not so savvy and thus is rejected.

Some artists find beast forms convenient for dropping
Inelegant social constructions like race,
While others will do much the opposite, having
Each species assigned to a group to replace.

More often, the species are chosen at random
Or else to reflect individuals’ traits.
At times, it’s a shorthand to let viewers know
When a person’s a good sort or someone to hate.

Some artists find animals simpler to draw,
With their fur, ears, and tails doing more to emote.
For marketing purposes, animals tend
To look extra distinctive and easy to note.

Beyond that, the artist may well find the critters
More fun to create than a bland human band,
And viewers may find them more fun to behold.
While your mileage may vary, you should understand.