The Comic Book Enthusiast
reading & writing about
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I apologize for not posting about Considering Watchmen back in time. I tried my best to read during my trip for a conference in Illinois, but so many things occurred that I didn't have time to finish. Please find the posts that were supposed to be after this one here, here, and here. Thank you! Andrew Hoberek’s Considering Watchmen discusses a lot about the creation of the Watchmen characters themselves as well as their transformation or alterations to become the Watchmen. Further, he focuses on multiple issues with retaining rights to Watchmen as well as the reality that the Watchmen universe embodies. I really enjoyed his discussion on how Moore was the one who shifted art to the importance of storytelling and how that carries the art to a more profound state. Further, the focus on how the superpowers are one thing but also the effects that come with those powers. I think that says a lot about comic books that do not really have a “real” focus. This is not to say that I don’t like fantasy worlds but Watchmen shows readers that the world is messed up. Further, it is important to note the success of graphic narratives as “Watchmen and Dark Knight [that] are jointly famous for bringing a darker, putatively more realistic tone to the superhero genre: unlike previous superheroes the protagonists of these series age, have sex, and commit morally questionable acts” (23). Since comic books can be educational, people who read them are more likely to learn something even if it’s minimal. I think Allan Moore gives hope to writers who want to enter the comic book industry who are not likely to be hired for their art or who do not have artistic skills. Therefore his stories can offer a sense of collaboration that is more likely to be successful rather than just art for art’s sake.I think Moore is so prevalent in the comic book industry because he combined the now with the possible, which to means that things that happen in his stories are likely to be real. For instance, he has America all figured out with the character The Comedian who is acts the way America really is and does not even try to be better but instead takes himself for who he is. For instance, Hoberek mentions that “Earlier, at the start of the sixties, superheroes had not felt stress at balancing their crime- fighting activities with their everyday lives or angst about their ethical responsibilities, so when Stan Lee and his collaborators represented such stress and angst, their stories appeared more realistic— even as their realism primarily consisted of the importation of tropes from other genres, the soap opera and the romance comic, into the superheroic universe and even as it eventually became, as Moore recognized, its own sort of unrealistic conventional gesture” (50). Here, reminds me of even poets who went against convention because they are resisting authority and in some ways the characters within Watchmen are doing just that because Rorschach still feels incline to be a masked adventurer despite the act that deems superheroes as illegal. Therefore, when Mason mentioned the Beat Generation in the graphic novel, shows that Moore does look at other writers as a source of inspiration. I admire that because he can appreciate others as wells as create his own. Other parts in this book that focuses on the comic book industry as mentioned before is so crazy. For example, Hoberek states that: Ozymandias, the head of a corporate empire based partly on licensing his own and other superheroes’ images, plays the part of the big publisher like DC. As if to make the point even clearer, Rorschach dies not in a physical struggle of the sort we would expect with a costumed vigilante but because he insists on telling his version of the events engineered by Veidt: ‘People must be told’ (96). This shows that people below the hierarchy of companies are more than likely to be victims to creative content being stolen without the chance to reclaim. I think that is problematic in an industry where art is at the forefront. I completely understand why Moore doesn’t want anything to do with the remakes of Watchmen. I find it so disgusting that artists and writers are always prone to such things. Thank you very much for reading!
-Nguyen, Alina
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In Jennifer Stuller’s “Love Will Bring You to Your Gift,” she talks about how superheroines embody more than their male counterparts because through compassion, they are allowed to go beyond the “super” because they can connect to people. I really enjoyed this piece because she uses multiple examples of strong female characters while challenging some. Moreover, I really enjoyed her take on Buffy the Vampire Slayer because she showed that working with people other than one’s self can still have a source of power that is worthy of a self-recognized effort. Thus, working with others is a sense of pride and a community based inclusivity rather than an individualistic goal. Sure, there are times where working alone is the best solution, but in being able to come together for a common goal is powerful within itself. Further, I connected with this piece because Stuller brings up Kwan Yin who I worship in my religion and through her I find strength when I am at my lowest because she shows compassion and offers guidance to those in need. Her story is so profound because she gave up in becoming enlightened to become a goddess, in order to help the suffering in the world. I think the quote that sums up the whole essay is “Compassionate collaboration leads to a realization of potential in the self and in others” (232) because the idea of strength in numbers is so prevalent, yet some people forget that and I think it is important to recognize that through the help of others, one can really find themselves and to know that they are not alone. In Adilifu Nama’s “Color Them Black,” he talks about the lack of Black superheroes and I think that can relate to other ethnic groups as well. Further, he mentions that “Superman’s identity as having less to do with being the last son of Krypton and more to do with symbolically embodying white racial superiority and American imperialism” (253). I agree, Superman is able to fit-in a world that a racial hierarchy exists because he looks white and thus is white in a sense. This quote reminded me of the model minority myth as well as the phrase “honorary whites” when it comes to Asian Americans, which is the ideology that Asian people can get near the top but can never truly achieve it because they will never be white. However, I think that there is power in the margins because people who are marginalized can see things that people at the center cannot. I really enjoyed it when Nama mentioned that: instead of Green Lantern, Green Arrow, and Black Canary leading the charge to end racism as superheroes, they symbolized the need for whites to take ownership of their white privilege, acknowledge the feelings of guilt, and most importantly strive for personal transformation (257-58). I found this quote very interesting and probably would have missed interpreting the text this way but yes the first step to being more aware and sensitive is to realize the privilege that comes with being white. Moreover, being aware of how people who aren’t are constantly being viewed as others and for most of these people’s lives, they continue to believe that they are useless because no one takes them seriously. To be honest, I know that some people don’t take me seriously because I am a female person of color but I know that I have a place in this world. Wow, I found Henry Jenkin’s piece “Death-Defying Heroes” to be interesting because I never thought about looking at “what comics might have to say to me about death, aging, and mortality” (295). Ever since I was young, I have been fascinated with an image and text fusion because that is the era that I grew up in and it influenced me a lot. I absolutely love this quote: “There is something energizing in the shift between text and images and in the larger-than-life stories so many comics to tell” (297). The world of comic book art and storytelling is so profound to me because it can touch so many readers. For example, in the past, comics were a tool for soldiers to learn certain things relating to the military. I think comic books are universal because if anything, the images can convey the meaning that words cannot to people who do not understand them. I think that for Jenkins to include his personal story shows how this art form means a lot to him and gives him a critical analysis that goes beyond what's on the page. Also, how he understands why most superheroes hold onto their trauma as a source of strength. It is this idea that through such trauma, something good can still come out of it and I think that is one of the hardest things anyone has to go through. Thank you very much for reading!
-Nguyen, Alina The Shadow Hero is unlike any of the other comics that I’ve posed on this page because the origin of the superhero is from his mother who had an encounter with one that made her wish her son was, too. Thus, with the hope to make her son a superhero, she takes it upon herself to make him a costume. Before that, my favorite scene in the chapter one was when Hank’s dad was offered alcohol and was intrigued but the Tortoise stopped him. Also, I love it when Gene includes old folklore within his work. In some ways, he’s preserving his Chinese culture within his comic books. It was shocking that Hank’s mother pushed him into the toxic spill. She really wants him to become someone great and continues to do everything she can to get him there. I love how she tried all the “methods” of past superheroes. I think that the idea of saving face is shown here through Hank’s mother’s mask wearing to hide who she truly is from people in the community who she is sure will judge her actions. I like that the person that Hank tries to fight first can protect her own self. Sonny Liew’s art is so great and in chapter three, I really like how he portrayed Hank’s bruised eye. Wow, page 65 was powerful. I really like the circle panel at the center with a gun pointing at the reader. Also, that same panel shows up one more time and reminded me of the repetition we see in Watchmen of exact panels. Now, Hank has motive after his father gets murdered and he even makes his own costume. I’d imagine his mother being very proud but what happened with the Tongs has made her afraid for Hank’s life. I can’t believe that Hank decided to be half naked with his costume since his mother didn’t help him with it. I love that panel with Hank’s hand out taking in the rain. The Tortoise is funny and in some ways is Hank’s sidekick, often giving him advice but of course remains in the shadows. I really enjoy the maps on the first page in some of the chapters. If you’re familiar with Gene Luen Yang’s other works such as American Born Chinese, you’ll recognize cousin Chin-Kee on one of the Coolie postcards. Ten Grand is clearly modeled after the Fu Manchu and knowing Yang’s work, he’s there for the purpose of showing how ridiculous stereotypes are. I really enjoy Liew’s take on action sequences in small panels making up one big one. Also, the gun panel I mentioned before shows up again. I think it does because it is the source of Hank’s motives. I like that everyone fears Ten Grand’s daughters and they look so badass. However, it goes into the stereotype that Asian/Asian American women are deviants. The most powerful part of this story is when Red Center’s father says, “<Hm. So then, he’s a…> <…Chinese suphero.>” (114) because finally Hank gets recognized as not just any superhero but a Chinese one and it is a big part of who he is. Now, we see why Yang included the Fu Macnhu he used that caricature to display the terrible act of yellowface. I like that Detective says to Moe: “Whatcha doin’, Moe? The Chinese can’t find a Chinese to play Fu Manchu?” (117). I think this is Yang’s comment on how the media most of the time casts white actors to play roles meant for Asian Americans like The Last Airbender. Oh no, the Detective turns out to be such a jerk. I take it back, this part is my favorite part because the white male becomes aware that superheroes can be of another race besides white. That’s awesome that Red Center is the one who initiated the date. I think that is an awesome turn from the past female superheroines who are always below men and needing their rescue. The Green Turtle is a superhero who isn’t worried about people knowing his true identity. I think that says a lot in the need for a positive presence of superheroes of color. I love that the Anchor of Justice was honored to meet The Green Turtle. Here, shows that the most celebrated superhero is able to appreciate other superheroes as well even if they’re half naked and identify as Chinese American. Wow, that ending was perfect because a superhero who people believe to be the best is not from here either and that shows that it’s ok to be different. What Hank says at the end is just so good because being a superhero is accepting who you are first. Thank you very much for reading!
-Nguyen, Alina I love that some panels show Kamala reading comic books! Further, the color palette is drastically different, which is important to differentiate the “reality” within the comic book itself. What I immediately enjoyed about this title is that it tackles stereotypes right on. For example, the character Zoe is so mean and unaware that what she’s saying can hurt others. I think the writer of the series is very satirical in her usage of stereotypes: to resist racism. Kamala Khan is a 16-year-old who is still learning about the people around her and how she fits within the world. From the first issue, I already get a feeling that this is a coming of age kind of story. Back to Zoe, she utilizes the concept of the model minority and tiger parents. These are two very prominent stereotypes that are put on Asian Americans. One of which believes that Asians are smarter than everyone else and the other, parents who are too strict on their children. Perhaps Kamala’s refusal of her father’s demands is resisting these stereotypes. Aw, Bruno likes Kamala but her parents are deemed too strict. Perhaps there is something to be analyzed here (I want to save that for my paper.) (: Whoa, some kind of mist/cloud like substance is glowing around the city! It kind of reminds me of Republic City in The Legend of Korra. Ah, Captain Marvel gives Kamala Khan her wish: to be blonde and badass. I think this is Wilson’s way of showing how rejecting one’s culture identity to fit-in is absurd. I really like how some of the panels are subtlety overlapping. Kamala saving Zoe says a lot about her character because she could have just taken all that hatred and stepped away, but she decided to do what’s right. Further in Issue 3, I really enjoyed the panels when she was inside the restroom trying to control her powers. I think that says a lot about being a superhero, not only having amazing superpowers but also to conceal those in order to maintain a normal reality. However, for Kamala, she doesn’t have a much of a “normal” reality due to her constant struggle with how she does not recognize what some of the people around her are doing, noticing that patriarchy is present within her family and mosque, and her constant desire to have white phenotypes. I think her sense of morals as a superhero but also as a good human being, is to decide whether she wants to help save Bruno from being robbed at the register or to standby. Her phones dies and I love how it mocks her for not charging it with “LOL.” Then, I liked that she referred to herself as “911” and since the law does not always seem to be up to par, I think this is a chance for her to use her super-powers for good. Jeez, Kamala got shot! I wonder what’s going to happen in the next issue! After every issue, I get even more hooked into this series! Now, I completely understand why Kamala Khan is so popular among readers. I like that Bruno initiated her future name in his panic and when Kamala tells him “[she’s] not Ms. Marvel” (2). I am glad she is going to tell Bruno because being only 16 with superpowers, I imagine is not an easy feat so to have someone who one can trust is necessary to even maintain sanity. What a tough break that she heals as Kamala! Again, this can be interpreted in another way and I want to save that for my paper. Finally, she becomes Ms. Marvel as her own self and that speaks volumes in how she has grown in the short amount of time as she learns about these superpowers. The “manager” of the place that’s keeping Vick kind of makes me uncomfortable. Although, I thought his shirt that says, “I’M A BAD GUY” was very funny in that he needs to assert his “badness” by wearing a ridiculous shirt. Wow, the panels with Kamala and her father were incredibly touching and shows that “[she doesn’t] have to be someone else to impress anybody. [She’s] perfect just the way [she is]” (8). Ah, he ruined it when he offered all these suggestions that she doesn’t feel seem all that helpful but more on the sides of "You're doing something wrong so go fix it." I love that Bruno is wearing a Back to the Future shirt! The Inventor is so scary! I like the indirect commentary of relation to the outside of world of the comic books with Kamala referencing catch phrases like “Come at be, Bro,” which symbolizes so much of today's interactions with people. The panel where Kamala gets a call from her Mom is so well done. Ian Herring’s choice of watercolor style is very well suited for this story. I look forward to reading more issues of Ms. Marvel in the near future! I didn’t have many quotes and analysis since I'm doing my paper on Ms. Marvel. Thank you very much for reading!
-Nguyen, Alina Chapter X It was nice to see a different side of Rorschach. The surprised feeling that Dan felt was what I felt when he apologized to him. I think this further shows how dynamic Rorschach’s character is and how he does not just care about crime-fighting but to some extent human connection, too. Wow, the suit kind of changes Dan’s character. He really does become a different person. The idea of a dual identity is beyond that in this case. He seems to be close to two different beings. I really liked Rorschach’s last entry and to be honest, it was bittersweet. The journals were some of the best parts and directly linked to his identity because that is how he recollects to a certain moment where something important had occurred and worth jotting down. I like his stamp at the end of the entry. Chapter XI I thought that it was sad that Adrian Veidt had to limit himself in school. For instance, he says, “Entering school, I was already exceptionally bright, my perfect scores on early test papers arousing such suspicion that I carefully achieved only average grades thereafter” (8). Here, shows that in order to give off that he is “normal” he had to limit his potential to “fit-in” because he’s a foreigner according to everyone else. I think the pressures of assimilation can be damaging. Wow, the old man at the stand is racist in thinking that every Black person knows other Black people. For example, he tells the lady looking for her husband: “Hm. Dunno maybe the Black guy sells watches up the street knows him…” (13). Further, she didn’t even say he was black but “a gentleman of color” (13). He could have been another ethnicity. Thus, this idea of passing others is so ignorant. I think the story arc of Joey and her girlfriend shows how society views homosexuality: wrong and must be “fixed.” For instance, Joey claimed: “I, I wanna go to bed with you, and…and I wuh-wanna be straight” (9), which shows that dichotomy in wanting to be one’s self but being restrained by societal normalized standards. Finally, we know who has been trying to kill the masked adventurers. Veidt wants to be in control of the world and he believes that in order to do so, he must be the only one left with “powers.” This chapter shows the evils of desperately trying to be the one to call the shots, and the results will ultimately be devastating. Also, too much power is dangerous and perhaps from his young age having to repress his intelligent abilities, lend a hand in this destruction. It turns out, the Comedian was just in the way of his plans so he eradicated him, which I think links to ending all the bad that America is as displayed through Blake’s actions. Chapter XII The clock strikes midnight and the blood of the civilians finally covering the clock that makes time “stand still.” Page 1 to 5 of Chapter XII is so powerful and shows the effects of such terrible actions. The idea of making the world a better place is great but not like this. The panels when Laurie came out of nowhere and shot Veidt was so epic! Yes, an awesome female character who doesn’t need rescuing and can make her own decisions. Whoa, Jon’s entrance was unexpected! I like that his dialogue got bolded since he is bigger. I like that Moore incorporated something British I think to show that these chapters are written and drawn by two British guys. On page 19, the first panel mentions B.B.C. 2, which I think is a nice nugget of the creators’ background. Further, with the mention of London, etc. Again, Rorschach proves that he’s the best character in that he does not under any circumstances get influenced by others. He trusts his gut and I think that is admirable. His ending was powerful because until his death, he still believed that “Evil must be punished” (23). The future looks a bit bright with Laurie and Dan together visiting Sally. However, I have a feeling something bad is going to happen in the last few pages. I think it also says a lot with how afraid Laurie and Dan are to have to change their names. The talk with her mother was sweet and I think they both needed to let things out. Wait what? Why is Sally kissing the Comedian’s picture? Honestly, this graphic novel was tough to understand but I loved it nonetheless. Wow, the smiley face sweater and what the chief says to the journalist: “I leave it entirely in your hands” (32) indirectly tells America that it is up to it to see where the future leads. Thank you very much for reading!
-Nguyen, Alina Chapter VII The zoom of the googles is epic. I noticed there are popular culture references in Watchmen. For example, the shoe with Snoopy on it in a previous chapter and the mention of Disney in this one. This graphic novel is filled with real life things and I think that helps it become more realistic: mirroring reality. Dan is the character that balances out the grim with the decent. I see how the chapter where Hollis mentions him in his autobiography showing up in the actual story now. It’s obvious to the readers that he is in love with Laurie. He went out of his way to make sure she had enough sugar lumps and I think that is a bit too much. However, I do understand that since Laurie knows about his secret identity, it’s easier for him to be more open about what’s going on in his life than to someone else. The zoom of the goggles kind of resemble camera lens. I wonder who’s watching… I find it really interesting how the television’s dialogue can mesh into the dialogue of the people within the comic book who are outside of the television. Further, the reflection of the television on the glasses lens is so well done. Whoa, I did not expect those panels with Dan taking off his skin to reveal the Nite Owl. Although, it makes sense since he misses crime-fighting. It seems as though the masked adventure identity is more relevant and more significant than the actual self-hidden within. The best line in this chapter is: “This is great, remembering which switches; which sequences. It’s like the old instincts are imprinted on my finger-tips…” (23) because it brings together all that loneliness that Dan felt with keeping his crime-fighting stuff despite quitting a long time ago. Chapter VIII I hope Laurie doesn’t turn out to be using Dan. He clearly really cares for her. I thought the Detective’s question: “Y’know, two kinds of people have calendars: people who peek at next month’s picture in advance and people who don’t. Which are you?” (9) was interesting because it shows that some people are so eager for what’s next that they cannot live in the moment. They are too obsess with the future that they limit their view on reality. The future is literally fake because it isn’t here yet. I really like the panels at the bottom of pages 10-15 because it still shows the focus of the story without directly waving it around in a sense. I found it funny that Jon just came back nonchalantly sitting on the couch reading a newspaper. The pink panel with John is interesting because he claims that “[He’s] on Mars” (23) but he’s also there because Dan can see him, too. He is getting a bit strange and I wonder what his motives are since Laurie feels threatened by his return. Dang, I didn’t expect to see Hollis Mason get killed in the last pages. I feel so sad for the kids that came for the annual candy. In Hector Godfrey’s article “Honor is like the Hawk: Sometimes it Must Go Hooded,” I found his comment: Nova Express makes many sneering references to costumed heroes as direct descendants of the Ku Klux Klan, but might I point out that despite what some might view as their later excesses, the Klan originally came into being because decent people had perfectly reasonable fears for the safety of their persons and belongings when forced into proximity with people from a culture far less morally advanced (Godfrey 2) shocking because the KKK was out of hatred. However, not all costumed heroes are bad and I think that is where Nova Express was wrong. The KKK cannot be associated with something good and comparing it to heroes is quite extreme. I think that the Comedian fits the bill though. Chapter IX The nuclear bomb looks like a fragrance bottle the eventual ending of it was so epic. I liked that it kind of went through space and eventually back into Laurie’s hand and destined for destruction. Jon “We’re all puppets, Laurie. I’m just a puppet who can see the strings” (5). Now, I know that Jon left Earth because he and Laurie broke up. I don’t think that should have been a reason for him to leave but it shows how Laurie really was the only one who saw him as a person rather than a monster. Ok, Jon is a bit too much for thinking that Laurie is his only link to survival. Perhaps the difference that he feels is too much that he needed her so much to control his rage of being viewed a certain way. Thus, he had to leave as soon as they broke up. Clearly, he feels alone on Mars even if he enjoys the space. I like Laurie in that she isn’t afraid to speak up her mind and stand for what she believes in. For example, when she confronts the Comedian, which showed that she cares about her mother and sees him as a monster for almost raping her mother. Thank you very much for reading!
-Nguyen, Alina I'll be posting Watchmen in various posts with three chapters each to stay consistent with my first Watchmen post. Chapter IV I really enjoyed this chapter because it tells the origins of Doc Manhattan. The transformation of his outer self shows the way in which people treat him. He was a human before and is now but people don’t seem to recognize that. The only way for him to be “okay” in a society that no longer views him as Jon the scientist but a monster is as he says: “As long as I continue to act under U.S. government supervision, I am exempt from the law. They can hardly outlaw me when their country’s defense rests in my hands” (23). I found that to be both a curse and a good thing only in that he is allowed to be using his powers. However, he will always be seen as an outsider despite being what humankind needs. Further, I found it interesting that Jon said that: “Vigilantism is now illegal again, as it was before they altered the laws to accommodate strategically useful talents such as myself” (23). Here, shows that the government knows how useful these adventurers yet they still allow for the media and the people in the city to view these people as horrible. Well, The Comedian is an exception since he’s a monster. The way Moore keeps mentioning about the past here and there in Doc Manhattan’s dialogue to the reader is so haunting and well done. I just found it uneasy that Laurie was so young when she met Jon. I think Janey is right to be upset because the one she loves is going to stay young forever while she ages and will die. The part when he asks who makes the world and who to blame is so powerful because it seems that everything happens for a reason, but that reason is blurred sometimes and in his case often unfair. Chapter V One of my favorite features in this graphic novel are Rorschach’s journal entries because he seems to be more into the vigilante stuff than anyone else. He isn’t afraid to continue being a masked adventurer after it got illegal. I thought this line in his journal was intense: “First, peeled off face, folded it, hid inside jacket. Without my face, nobody knows me” (11) because it shows the reader that he sees himself with only the mask and he identifies with it and that is why he cannot let go. Wow, when he spills the coffee onto the napkin to form the Rorschach test really shows how much he wants his “face” on. The reveal of Rorschach’s face was so sad and I heard in my head his screaming to leave his face on. Finally, I know who has been around and the person at the funeral was him. Chapter VI I thought the first page was powerful because Walter lied to the detective because he really saw a bloody dog. Perhaps he is disturbed and the only way for him to challenge that into something good is when he is masked and being a vigilante. Jeez, he had such a rough childhood and I get it now. I know why he is the way he is. I think it takes someone really strong to be able to take such trauma to channel that into something good rather than bad. Rorschach is the character that the audience should root for but they do anyway. I understand why he doesn’t want to be called Walter, it’s because that name reminds him of the hardest times in his life. Wow, he created the mask before knowing that he wanted to use if for good. It was shocking to read that it took two years until that mask became a part of his life. The link between the woman he never met to him is powerful because she gave him his motivation. Walter is so complex: he claims that he has been just Kovacs but I think his actions and the way he carries himself tells differently. Thank you very much for reading!
-Nguyen, Alina Chapter I Wow, the first page of Chapter I started out so poetic and I am already hooked. I love the zooming out of the pin with blood that one can still see as a dot as the panel zooms out and out. I really enjoyed the panels showing the death of the Comedian. I think limited color palettes are always so much more intense and powerful. The pages with Rorschach’s first appearance was really interesting because it highlights what he can do with only sounds that he makes instead of dialogue. Also, it is worth noting that the Watchmen also focuses on retired heroes, too. Danny was the Nite Owl and partners with Rorschach and as he walked away, the answer to Danny’s question: “You quit” (Moore 13) was enough to show the emotion that Danny must have felt when he hanged up the Nite Owl costume. One of my favorite comments was “Never set up a company selling posters and diet books and toy soldiers based on himself” (17) because it shows how superheroes are appearing everywhere. I like Rorschach’s characterization because he is mysterious but also funny. Honestly, I’m finding Hollis Mason’s autobiography more interesting at this point. It is so well written and it transcends me into the book. Is this book dedicated to Denise or me: the reader? It was refreshing to see that even the Nite Owl himself saw the ridiculousness in himself and he was okay with that because “[he] know[s] people always have trouble understanding just the sort of things [him and the other Minutemen] do … [I]n [his] case it’s fairly straightforward: [he] like[d] the idea of adventure, and … [felt] bad unless [he’s] doing good” (5). I think the first step to achieving one’s goal is to wanting to do something so bad that nothing can stop then. For instance, Mason admitted: “I dressed up like an owl and fought crime because it was fun and because it needed doing and because I goddam felt like it” (5). Here, shows that he didn’t care what others thought but knew he was meant to become a masked adventurer. I found it interesting that superheroes in this graphic novel as more explicit in the public eye than hidden in the shadows. Chapter II It was uneasy for me to read that Laurie’s mother let the past go of her being almost raped by The Comedian. However, I do understand that in letting go can help release trauma that has occurred in one’s life. Wow, I was really fascinated with the way Gibbons did the transition of the photograph to a flashback of when it was taken on page 4. It was interesting to see that Laurie’s mother, Sally, was the original Silk Spectre. Page 6 and 7 were uncomfortable to see and something earlier comic books haven’t had demonstrated. The last panel on page 7 is so great because Gibbons shows a person in each category for the background, midground, and foreground panel 9 on page 7. Despite being the one to save Sally, Hooded Justice treats her like garbage telling her: “Get up…and, for God’s sake cover yourself” (Moore 8). I wonder if this is because he believes that women cannot defend themselves or perhaps this is what leads her to view herself in the same way when she is older. I like that Laurie isn’t ok with her mother treating the situation as though it was not a horrible and wrong thing. The transition from the funeral to the past in the beginnings of the Watchmen was well done. The rape scene and the murder of the Comedian’s Vietnamese lover were shocking! She goes to talk to Eddie to tell him about her pregnancy, but he doesn’t want to hear it. He claims that America is better and always will be so it does not matter whether she is pregnant with his child: she is beneath him. I think this shows that America doesn’t want to be seen as the one who lost to foreigners. For example, he tells her: “Forget you, forget your cruddy little country, all of it” (14) in which she counters with “I do not think so. I think you remember me and my country. I think you remember us as long as you live” (14). I thought that this was powerful because yes how can anyone forget the trauma and torment that America caused Vietnamese people? Further, he thought that she was helpless and was shocked that she was able to take charge of her own life. In “Madame Butterfly,” a short story by John Luther Long in 1898, centers on a pregnant Japanese woman who commits suicide because her white naval officer lover no longer wants anything to do with her. After Watchmen in 1986, Miss Saigon plays on the same trope, and with a Vietnamese woman. I think Moore is using that as an example of how outrageous it is for American soldiers to do whatever they want at the expense of others. The stress that war leaves on the personal lives of people are so horrific that it should not be overlooked. Moore definitely twisted the fate of the woman by having Eddie kill her instead of her killing herself, which is countering the idea that Asian women only want white male domination and will die because he no longer wants her at her own will. The Comedian’s costume with the U.S. flag on his shoulders, personifies the wrongdoings of America and how he deserved to die for what he’s done. Even when he’s dead, he is still being praised, which shows how cruel the world is sometimes. It’s interesting that the Comedian visited his enemy before he died. I think that connects to how he finally views himself for who he truly is: evil. Further, he thinks that his actions are so minimal and that since they relate to women and children, it means nothing. His actions go hand-in-hand with the type of person he is. I liked that Hollis Mason revealed that it took him roughly three months to know if he was ready to become a “costumed adventurer” because it shows that even people who want to do good things are afraid to take that initiative sometimes. The things he thought about in relation to the design of his costume are most of the things that I am thinking about while I was coming up with my own superhero design. There are so many possibilities but a costume should be iconic. Besides, it is what people see first and apparently the only thing that matters… Mason agrees with my initial reaction to the Comedian. Now, I know why Sally didn’t make a big fuss of what happened to her. Jeez, just because Silhouette was a lesbian she was forced to leave the group? This graphic novel is continuing to show no progression whatsoever in terms of human rights issues. Her agent was so concerned with the image of the group for the purpose of publicity that it ultimately ended people’s lives. It was interesting to read that Mason believed that “the group dealt its most serious blow when Sally quit crimefighting to marry her agent” (10). I thought this was interesting because it finally seems that women mattered even a little in comics now. I just can’t get over the fact that Sally was silenced from her ability to speak up about something that happened to her. Chapter III Well, that was awkward with Jon being in multiple places at once. I think Laurie was right to react in such a way because she felt that she didn’t matter enough to have his full attention. The art is this graphic novel is so good and the attention to detail is worth admiring. The kettle going off as Laurie says, “Just shadows in the fog” (Moore 9) is so brilliant. Jon will always been seen as an outsider and he gets criticized for not being too familiar with the customs of American society and that shows in the way Laurie treats him. Also, the lady at the interview claims: “‘They’re not paying me enough to handle monsters from outta space!’” (11). Perhaps the target on his forehead symbolizes himself as a target for society to treat him differently because of his light blue skin and laid-back demeanor. I found making him extra blue further pushes how different he is compared to everyone else on Earth: he’ll never fit in. Jon yelling at the press is exactly what these people want: seeing the foreigner do something absurd to justify their hatred. It was interesting to see Jon’s focus juxtaposed with Laurie and Dan getting mugged. It seems like Laurie and Jon are better together but and worst apart. Now, Jon is being victimized for something that he had no hand in doing. The first blame will always be put on the one that stands out in an otherness sort of way. Under the Hood: Chapter V I did not expect that The Minute got their name in that context. Moore was brilliant to include actuality within these chapter as he has Mason say: “Real life is messy, inconsistent, and it’s seldom when anything ever really gets resolved” (Mason 12). I thought it was profound how Mason recognized that without villains, superheroes are essentially useless. Mason mentioned the Beat Generation poets and now Allan Moore is my favorite. Thank you very much for reading!
-Nguyen, Alina The comic books industry had its hands full with emerging adult readers and as always its young readers. In Bradford Wright’s “From Social Consciousness to Cosmic Awareness: Superhero Comic Books and the Culture of Self-Interrogation, 1968-1974,” he mentions that: By 1968, comic books had become an entertainment form where children’s culture and youth culture met … But kids looking for their favorite comic books on the racks often had to work around buyers ten or twenty years older than themselves. The resurgence of Marvel Comics and the pop-camp sensation of the Batman television show had made comic books popular on college campuses and military bases, as well as in the high schools and elementary schools of America. This created unique opportunities as well as challenges for the makers of comic books (Wright 156). Perhaps the challenge is a good thing to make comic books for both audiences. I think that if it comes down to catering only one audience, then the possibility of reaching others is slim to none. Also, that means the content is skewed and can only be done in one way instead of multiple ones. Further, one of the most interesting points that Wright makes is that the comic book industry was the issues around “the generation gap, black power, and the Vietnam War be examined through stories of super-powered men in colorful tights? These challenges set the tone for comic books of the 1970s, which would turn out to be one of the most exciting and frustrating decades in the industry’s history” (157). The fight for social justice is very important and comic books could be a tool for that. I found it interesting that Marvel and DC didn’t want to focus on controversial issues yet some of their comics already serve as controversial in their depictions of people who are deemed different. I think it is important to show how these issues are relevant in society through such mediums that adolescents and young people are so interested in because it allows them to be aware of what’s going on in the world. It seems that Stan Lee did not care for these issues because Marvel thought that it was irrelevant to its readership, however, their readers were more equipped per se to be informed of these issues and to understand the importance of them. All of this seems to lead to the money making aspect of things because what Lee suggests is that they changed their content to cater to their audiences’ want rather than seeing what needs to be shown themselves. Finally, the late 60s opened the consciousness of DC and Marvel to have racial issues within comic books. For instance, Wright mentions, “In 1969, Marvel introduced the first African-American superhero, the Falcon … In choosing to debut the first black American superhero in the title of the most explicit superhero symbol of patriotism, Stan Lee seemed to be making a symbolic point of his own” (159). It is so important to have positive representations of people of color in comic books because POC are people, too. Also, young readers will be able to connect to them in a positive way rather than seeing themselves as villains as previous depictions of people of color are only shown through a racist lens. However, when they tried to include these issues, they got a sort of black lash from the lack of story focus in the comics. It seems as though nothing is ever satisfying for readers indefinitely. I think DC made a good decision when they brought Dennis O’Neil and Neal Adams on board because it seems as though O’Neil had the right mindset in handling these issues within comic books. For example, Wright says: [B]y [O’Neil’s] thinking, it was probably too late to reach anyone of his own generation. But, he thought, ‘Maybe you could get a smart twelve-year-old and get him thinking about racism.’ At the very least, he hoped that the comic books ‘might awaken youngsters to the world’s dilemmas,’ giving them an early start so they might find solutions in their maturity … Adams brought a distinctive realistic style to comic book illustration, emphasizing careful attention to anatomy, detailed facial expressions, and a cinematic sense of movement and action. O’Neil has said that Adams used to boast, with good reason, that if superheroes existed in the real world, they would look the way that he drew them (161). I thought this quote was profound because it touched upon how comic books can make young readers realize that the world they live in is not as safe as they might assume. Moreover, Adams comment on his art style is astonishingly amazing because he recognizes that superheroes are fantasy and if there was any connection to the real world, it will at least translate in the way the characters are drawn. Despite O’Neil and Adams’ title getting cancelled, it was better than having to reduce the meaning to fit in for young readers. I think that shows that the integrity of the works are still intact. It’s nice to read Jack Kirby’s own title: The New Gods. In issue No. 1, Orion has a destiny to fulfill and seems to be really mean towards Metron who I think is my favorite character so far because he seems to be more wise and calm in his actions. For instance, he claims: “I serve life in my own way! What there is to know—I wish to know! My knowledge is my power! Time and space is my domain!” (17). I found this important because it promotes different kinds of power rather than just superhuman ones. The best quote in this issue was: “The song ends—but the beauty of it must never fade!—or die, Orion!” (Kirby 7) because it shows this timeless concept that I think what comic books do. In some ways, comic books are timeless works of art. I really liked the last page because it has a prologue with one page dedicated to the next issue instead of a little panel at the end. I find it refreshing to see this difference and perhaps this was another way in which Kirby differentiated his own comics from the titles he worked on for Marvel Comics. In The New Gods No. 7, I found it funny that Izaya claims that Avia is what keeps him going, but he tells her to leave when he’s in combat. Wow, that was so intense! Avia sacrifices herself to save him and that in itself is profound. Despite the way he dismisses her, she loves him and puts him first. I think that act shows that she is not worthless and is able to make her own decisions even if it means ending her life. I thought it was interesting that the ruler of Apokolips was a woman. I was initially excited but the way she is portrayed is nearly monstrous. This shows that women in comics with power can only achieve that power through being threatening and scary. I like the last panel on page 20 with “THE SOURCE” in flames! I was not expecting to find out that this was Orion’s origin story. I have even more respect for Jack Kirby after reading this issue. In Green Lantern Co-Starring Green Arrow No. 76, Green Lantern and Green Arrow are trying to get the thug arrested for treating his tenants terribly. Further, it focuses on issues happening in that time period in real life. I already enjoy the cover of this issue. The shattering lantern is top-notch. The Green Lantern assumed that he was being thanked because someone said: “Hey—superhero!” (O’Neil & Adams 3). However, he gets knocked over the head with a tin can and I think this shows that some people are still not comfortable with the idea of superheroes roaming around. What I found to be the strongest point of this issue is the African American man telling and asking the Green Lantern: I been readin’ about you…how you work for the blue skins…and how on a planet someplace you helped out the orange skins…and you done considerable for the purple skins! Only there’s skins you never bothered with—! ...The Black skins! I want to know how come?!’ in which The Green Lantern replies with his head down: ‘I…can’t…’ (6). Here, shows that society has been so evil and that it is important to know what has happen to change the future. However, I didn’t appreciate that Adams drew a caricature of a black man. The Green Arrow is sly and smart to get his enemies to do what he pleases. Again, he’s smart and does not let his guard down by setting up a dummy in his place just in case Slade was up to no good. Green Arrow is frustrated as he questions himself and the Green Lantern: “You appealed to Slade’s humanity…I tried his greed…and we both failed! Some heroes we are, huh—?” (17). Here, shows that if heroes cannot even do something so simple as to prevent people from getting evicted, then what is their purpose? The images of Martin Luther King and Robert Kennedy in the last panel of page 21 was powerful and really speaks to the readers as how terrible the world is with the deaths of these revolutionary men. Further, the epilogue was interesting and I really liked the quest that they went on to try and find themselves. I think the readers can connect to that in some ways in reality, finding one’s self can be one of hardest things to do. Thank you very much for reading!
-Nguyen, Alina The Uncanny X-Men #1 started off with some mythology, which was cool to see that it continued on to 1960s comics. For example, Professor Charles Xavier says, “Don’t be overconfident Angel! You almost singed your wing on that unexpected flame jet!” (Lee & Kirby 4). The indirect story of Icarus is seen here. It was interesting to see that the first initial students of Professor Xavier’s were only men. I’m glad that Jean Grey was introduced in the first issue because she was a game changer. She did not become so boy crazed and showed the boys that she is not to be messed with. For example, she says, “Don’t worry, Warren! I’m not exactly helpless, as you can see!” (10). I am so glad to finally read about a female superhero who stands up for herself without the help of men. I loved it when Professor X revealed the meaning behind the name the X-Men. He tells Jean: “You possess an extra power…one which ordinary humans do not!! That is why I call my students … X-Men, for Ex-tra power!” (8). I love origins of names and I wished that more depth would go into how their names get chosen. On to the art, I love the first three panels in tier one of page 14 because it starts with the rocket in its canister then shows the movement through sections. I was bummed that through the first few panels with Magneto did not have a close-up of Magento, however, the last panel on page 15 gives depth into the hatred that he has for humans. The lack of women in the school should not give the male mutants the right to look at Jean as an object. I think Lee and Kirby did a great job with having the first two mutants be from the good side and the bad side. Magento is so obsessed with world domination that he does not see himself as an antagonist because he believes what he’s doing is right. For example, he says of the X-Men: “Despite their seeming youth and inexperience, they are mighty antagonists!” (21). In Uncanny X-Men #59, I can see why Jean fell for Scott in the beginning because he wasn’t among the others who kept spying on her and making rude comments. However, he changed in issue #59. For instance, he says, “Just use your powers to slow us down! Just us, girl…got it?” (Lee & Thomas 2). Throughout this issue, Cyclops just loves to yell at Jean and making her do things. She is so terrified of doing something wrong because of the possibility to his disapproval. Jean is already amazing and with Cyclops comment: “Attaway to earn your Marvel Girl title, Jean!” (11) shows the he thinks she is finally she useful in some way. Then, I have mix feelings about Cyclops as he seems to care a lot about Jean, however, that does not give him the right to view her as someone who should do everything he says. I really enjoyed this issue because it tells the story of how Larry Trask’s father hid from him that he is in fact, a mutant. His father was so afraid “that some other mutant would learn [his] secret, he tried to have them all imprisoned!” (4). I think this issue really shows the otherness of the mutants and how they will always be the other and are victims of the Sentinels. One of my favorite panels is when one of the sentinels is holding Larry up and says, “We must act on the last command you gave us…as a human! And, that command was: ‘Secure all mutants in area…and destroy them!’” (4). The Dark Phoenix Saga was so great! Uncanny X-Men #135: Dark Phoenix made think a lot of the role of females within comic books. For example, I think it is worth noting that in issue #59, Jean is seen as someone who begs for Scott’s approval but when she turns into Dark Phoenix, the writers says, “Witness the birth of a God!” (Claremont & Byrne 1). Are women only allowed to be respected if people are forced to? In the first issue, she was in control but soon after, she is just in the shadow of Scott and the rest of the guys. One of my favorite moments in this issue was when the Silver Surfer says, “She is human, flawed—and that flaw bids fair to destroy her. I must aid her if I can…” (8). Here, shows that he recognizes that she is human first, which is far from what the ordinary people of Earth can say. The writers did a great job because I wonder if a superhero that is not from Earth knows, then why is it so hard for other humans to see her, too. It is sad to think that people will always see the mutants as threatening. For example, this comment really encompasses that: “To all concerned, the X-Men are obviously criminals” (6). The Dark Phoenix is terrifying and I think it is important to have a female villain that can be just as intimidating as a male one. New X-Men #114 is definitely more of the style that I like since there are more one panels per page, which highlights more of the art. The story is important but the art is just a crucial because comic books are an image and text art form. Further, the art style and depth has changed drastically throughout these issues. I think I enjoy #59, #135, #136, #137, and #114 more because it looks like more thought was put into them. The panels look fuller and use of space is very well done. I think issue 1 looks a bit rushed. In issue #114, the panel with the blurred blood and the mouth of the Neanderthal is so intense and continues to show the difference in art style. I love the page with the profiles of the X-Men, which shows their skill in a sense. Further, the page with the huge Sentinel really shows the detail that is put into this issue. The best line in this issue is when Professor Xavier says, “They will be called freaks. Genetic monstrosities. They will be mocked, feared, spat upon and accused…of stealing human jobs, eating human food, taking human partners…” (Morrison). Here, shows that no matter what, mutants are going to be viewed as “monsters” in the eyes of ordinary people. I found it interesting when Beast remarked: “I was never sure why you had us dress up like heroes anyway, professor” (Morrison) because they do not consider themselves superheroes. Then, Cyclops justified the Professor’s intention stating that “The Professor thought people would trust the X-Men if we looked like something they understood” (Morrison). This shows that being so different and afraid that the very people they are sworn to protect, are going to attack them. It was interesting to see Larry Trask in the future and how he has changed into someone who is scared of everything. Perhaps his father’s fear led his son to become an outcast when he could have had a team backing him up like the X-Men.
Thank you very much for reading! -Nguyen, Alina |