Week 5: The Graphic Novel

Blankets by Craig Thompson is probably my favorite thing we've read so far in class. I hardly need to say this, but obviously the artwork is stunning. I loved how Thompson used visual motifs like angels and devils throughout the book to tell his story and convey the way in which he looked at nearly everything in a religious context as a teenager. One of my favorite pages features Raina in a simple pajama shirt, glowing like an angel. Whenever the two of them are alone together, there are multiple pages of beautiful spirals, florals, and swirls spilling out from around their figures. Moments like this really pushed how strongly Craig felt about her and captured the joy and wonder of a first romance.

The story itself was also very emotional for me. While Craig certainly did have struggles far more severe than my own, I related to him on many levels. I have a sister who is three years younger than me, just like Phil is to Craig. The scenes in the story where the two brothers played, talked, or fought together really made me feel nostalgic for my childhood with her. I also grew up in a religious household and went to Sunday school and church camp just like Craig. Many elements of these scenes, as well as Craig's inner pondering about God and Heaven were familiar to me. On the other hand, I also formed many connections with Raina. I have also had many times in my life where I felt responsible for keeping the peace at home, so I really admire characters like her.

Overall, I felt like the messages of this story were powerful. In my opinion, the most significant one was that the adult world may not meet the expectations you set for it as a kid. Craig felt like Raina was the love of his life, however he never saw her again after his visit. I sensed that this would be the case in the panels where Raina is saying goodbye. The wind is blowing her hair in front of her face, and I thought "Oh, this is goodbye for real." Its heart wrenching, but we learn that he moves on and is able to look back on their time together fondly. This bittersweet ending left me feeling a number of emotions. I'm so glad that I was given the chance to experience this amazing book.