NY Comic Con, Asterios Polyp and Wilson

I warned you that I was in a graphic novel phase, or research between new work phase, or procrastination phase, but whatever you prefer to call it, I've been excited about comics lately. On top of that, out of the blue my friend had such an intriguing proposition working the Anime Network booth at NY Comic Con, that I couldn't refuse and have been pouring over the event list daily to see where I'll make my way during breaks. Tracy White will be speaking there, author and illustrator of graphic novel How I made it to Eighteen, a story of addiction, depression and getting through it, as well as Jane Yolen, who is typically a wonderful children's author and is making her own graphic novel debut. Definitely check all the comic mayhem out October 8th-10th!

image via BoDoi, image via paulgravett.com
Today I finished 2 graphic novels back to back, and there was my first mistake. The second, is that I started with David Mazzucchelli's Asterios Polyp and then went on to Daniel Clowes' Wilson. They both star a middle aged self centered male, and because of this should have been enjoyed and reread separately in order to avoid comparisons. But alas, I did not and so I will.
Mazzucchelli's graphic design layout, choice of limited colors, use of space, and a beautiful script make this the perfect graphic novel to me. Each character has a depth that feels more autobiographical than fiction. I could gush and pour on the praise all day, but just do yourself a favor and read it.
* On a side note, I did take a class alongside Mazzucchelli and his class work is featured somewhere on this blog.....also, he was super nice and always helpful.
In Clowes' Wilson, the character never quite grows, is always quite despicable, and never makes a real connection to the people on the pages, leaving it as flat as the medium itself. What works are the changing styles of drawing and alternating full color pages and 2 colors pages for visual interest. His drawing style has always been a favorite of mine, and for this I would still recommend it.

image via raincoastbooks.com