Spectacular Spider-Man 173

Spectacular Spider-Man 173

“Creatures Stirring,” the title of this tale, showcases Gerry Conway and David Michelinie’s writing talents in celebration of the Christmas season.

Longtime nemesis Doctor Octopus returns seeking human kindness from – in his own words – the only woman who has ever shown him kindness: May Parker.

Also en route to join festivities already in progress at the family homestead is Peter Parker, laden with gifts. Along the way, the weary Web-Head detours long enough to stop a street Santa mugging and the Daily Bugle for the annual Christmas party.

An impromptu altercation at the latter puts Peter in a bad mood, meaning his eventual meeting with Doc Ock proves a misunderstanding resulting in the obligatory punch up.

That is interrupted by the appearance of Aunt May and Mary Jane. The kindly doctor makes his apologies and departs leaving Spider-Man to ponder, aloud, if there are any heroes of villains on Christmas Eve.