I've already mentioned "Blankets" in this blog, so this blog may be shorter than most, but after discussing it with my Graphic Narrative course I am continuing to be amazed by the things this book is able to do. I think this is, by far, one of the most accessible, best introductions to, graphic novels. The story is relatable for most people; first love, family relations, finding/losing faith, adolescence, but it also gives the reader enough information, style, and room to work on a more metaphorical level that graphic novels/narratives are great at doing. First things first, the art in this book is exquisite. The art is done with a watercolor brush which gives it all a smooth, graceful line. The intricacy of some of his panels completely blow me away, the detail within detail within detail (especially when showing Raina) seems impossible when you consider he worked with a paintbrush (yes, a small paintbrush, but) instead of a fine point pen. In general "Blankets" leaves you with a sense of peace, silence, contemplation, and, in general, (this may be a strong word but I'm going for it) a sense of gorgeousness.
"Blankets." Why that title? This book tackles so many aspects of growing up. Individually, Craig Thompson's experience but also aspects of adolescence we all experience. But what does "Blankets" have to do with that. More than first love, more than loosing one's faith, according to Thompson this novel is an attempt to describe what it is like/feels like to sleep next to someone. This blew me away! Ha, I'm not sure I've ever read a novel of any sort that is bent on embodying such a basic human experience. And we aren't talking sleeping with your lover for the first time, no. In fact, more important than Thompson's relationship with his first love, Raina, is his relationship with his little brother Phil. Thompson is constantly juxtaposing moments spent with Raina with recollections of his and Phil's boyhood spent sharing a bed. More than anything, Craig's relationship with Raina seems to be an attempt to claim a relationship for himself, on his own terms.
Phil's relationship with Craig is more complex because, as I think all siblings experience, Craig must deal with growing up and growing apart from the only other person in the world who might understand what it is and was to grow up as "Craig Thompson". On a more artistic/technical aspect, Thompson's constant use of snow, weather talking about it or drawing sequences that take place in snow, give you the feeling of being covered, of being surrounded and safe.
Until next time,
GN
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