A Graphic Novelist's Favorite Novels | David Small | Big Think

TL;DR

An artist discusses graphic novels, influences from film and literature, and the evolution of storytelling.

Transcript

you know I've I've I've been around I've been in that flurry of of whatever terminology misunderstanding I I'm perfectly fine with the term graphic graphic books you know whether it refers to fiction or Memoir or or what have you it doesn't it doesn't bother me I'm not a I'm not a purist about Comics or anything like that maybe because I never real... Read More

Key Insights

• 📖 The artist is open to the term "graphic novels" but isn't confined by comic book conventions.
• 🧑‍🎨 Influences from film and literature shape the artist's approach to storytelling in graphic novels.
• 🥺 Revisiting films and literature as an adult can lead to a deeper appreciation and understanding of their intricacies.
• 💦 European filmmakers like Bunuel and authors like Chekhov influence the artist's work and creative vision.
• 🔉 Understanding the evolution of storytelling mediums like graphic novels requires exploring diverse influences and perspectives.
• 🎨 Appreciating the concision of Chekhov's writing style and the epic romances of Tolstoy enriches the artist's storytelling palette.
• 😚 Antonioni's initially perplexing films reveal hidden depths and unforgettable imagery upon closer examination.

Questions & Answers

Q: How does the artist view the term "graphic novels"?

The artist is comfortable with the term and doesn't mind if their work is categorized as a comic book, as long as it tells their story effectively.

Q: What influences the artist's work in graphic novels?

The artist draws inspiration from film, favoring European filmmakers like Bunuel, and literature, with a preference for authors like Chekhov and Tolstoy.

Q: Why did the artist avoid reading graphic novels while working on their own book?

The artist wanted to avoid being influenced or intimidated by exceptional works, preferring to maintain the purity of their storytelling and creative process.

Q: How did the artist's perception of Antonioni's films evolve over time?

Initially finding Antonioni's work boring and incomprehensible, the artist later appreciated the unforgettable imagery and revisited the films as an adult, recognizing some as works of genius.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The artist is open to the term "graphic novels" and doesn't adhere to strict comic book conventions.

• Influences stem from film and literature, with admiration for filmmakers like Bunuel and authors like Chekhov and Tolstoy.

• Finds Antonioni's work initially boring but later appreciates the unforgettable imagery, leading to revisiting films as an adult.