Week 2: Understanding Comics

Growing up, I never read comics. It was never because I disliked them, it's just that I never had the chance to ever read one until I reached middle school.

Studying them now, though, I'm surprised at just how much it takes to create and comic. It isn't just pictures and words. Comics require lots of careful planning and time in order to flow properly and make sense overall to the reader.

One of the most significant things that stood out to me while reading Understanding Comics was the section about gutters. I found it really interesting how easy it is to sit and watch TV or a movie and have every second filled in - there is never a gap that leaves us guessing. That's probably due to the pacing of everything. With comics, though, it's different. The pacing is completely unique to the reader and the "gutter" allows for the second of interpretation as to what could happen next.

In addition to gutters, I also found the different types of closure for comics to be interesting. From panel- to - panel, to non- sequitur, the variety in how a story is told in comics can differ drastically. I find this to be one of the great things about comics. Having such a variety allows readers the chance to find what style suits them. Some people might like very little closure, so a panel to panel comic would be suitable. For others, more closure might be desired.

Overall, comics have a lot more to them than I initially thought. I think I have a better understanding and appreciation for them.


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