Week 2: Understanding Comics

I believe Scott McCloud's Understanding Comics to be the perfect introduction to a class like this. It addresses all the major themes of the genre, both technical and creative. He explains comics and the way people consume them like a science, which I found extremely fascinating. Many of his points were concepts that I was vaguely aware of, but had not actually given much thought to before. Why are cartoons so relatable? What makes them such an effective form of communication? The answers to these questions are something every comic artist and fan ought to be familiar with.

For me personally, the part of the book that hit closest to home was the chapter where McCloud outlined the six steps that are critical for the creation of comics. In his explanation, we are shown a number of characters with the ambition to be a comic artist. Each one of them ends up at a different level of success depending on the extent of their perseverance.  I felt like the overall message of this section could be applied to many different types of artists. I found myself saying "Oh, I would much rather be this person!" with each new introduction. The chapter varies quite a bit from the rest of the book, which has a strong emphasis on the mechanics of the medium (transitions, contrasting styles, etc.) up until this point. However, here is seems as if McCloud, knowing his book would be read by aspiring comic artists, speaks to us very directly. His implication being that if we truly have a passion for the art, we should never give up on it. And while I found the entire book to be very informative and interesting, it was this particular point that stuck with me and got me really excited to continue this course and learn as much as I can about the world of comics.

Week 1: The Graphic Narrative

Before reading The Arrival by Shaun Tan, I was not aware books of that nature existed. The idea that a complex story full of mature themes like immigration and assimilation could be clearly told without a single written word was very foreign to me. However, as I read the story I was amazed at how easily the emotions, intentions, and goals of the main character translated through illustration alone.

From the opening pages we learn that the main character is going on a journey and leaving his family behind. We know that he is reluctant to do so because of their sad expressions and body language, as well as the family portrait he packs in his suitcase. This is just one small example of the countless times in the book that the combination of a character's physical actions and repeating motifs are used to keep the reader engaged in the story. We watch as the protagonist travels to another country, one where he does not speak the language (as indicated by him cupping his ear in confusion, as well as the nonsensical symbols that serve as this nation's writing- leaving the reader just as ignorant to their meaning). As more and more characters are introduced, it is clear that everyone our man meets has a similar story: they traveled to this new place in order to escape some oppressive force in their home country. The author illustrates each of these in fantastical, unique ways, and even though we might not understand what exactly went on, the reader can easily discern the necessary information: that these people needed to flee, just like the main character. Therefore they are willing and able to help and understand him.

Overall, The Arrival was a delight to read. I enjoyed it enough to order a physical copy, as I believe it will be an even better experience than simply the pdf. Tan's art serves as a truly wonderful means to consume this heartwarming story. I know that I can share this book with anyone, and they will be able to appreciate its beauty.