Graphic Novels at Large

First off, I am a big fan of "graphic novels", unfortunatley I have not read as many as I would like, as my time for reading for pleasure is limited by my being an English major.

The added images that come along with the graphic novel format, only change the way I read slightly. Firstly, it provides the reader with more to analyze. Rather than being left with only text to glean meaning from, it also provides the images. this allows the writer to be more sure their purpose is getting across. Visually everyone is on the same page (no pun intended) with the images the author wants to get across, rather than everyone imaginging something different. Though some argue that this does have the negative effect of lessening one's creativity/imagination.

I disagree with this contention, however, since the "graphic novel" format can get the reader more engaged. If one panel has a character stealthily creeping and the next shows an explosion (for example) it says nowhere that the character set the explosion though that is the implication. The reader has to connect the dots for themselves. Also, the images can contain details that are important later on, just as a narrator's description can be important later on. These details are carefully planned out by the author. When a "graphic novel" author (who is not also the illustrator) writes, they describe every pannel, including setting, and character descriptions, not just dialogue. So they put in as much, if not more planning into their writing than a "traditional" writer.

Literary Term #1:

Memoir: An autobiographical sketch--especially one that focuses less on the author's personal life or psychological development and more on the notable people and events the author has encountered or witnessed.

Poetic Experiement

Original Description:

The crystal longhouse sits atop the building. Next to skyward pointing pipes it keeps fragile life warm at a frigid height.


The Sad Version:

The crystal home sits lonely atop the world. The glass womb struggling to keep fragile life warm at a frigid height.


The Happy Version:

High aloft, ruling all the world from its perch, the glittering house is a warm bastion on a cold day. This wiser Icarus basks in the sun, living brightly.