The first half of an essay.

Calvin the Great, the Beautiful and the Ridiculous

When the name "Calvin and Hobbes", is mentioned the reaction of the crowd is almost always positive. Phrases like "What a wonderful comic" and "That Bill Watterson was a genius" spread through the crowd until everyone is in an almost irritably pleasant and nostalgic mood. Are they to be blamed for their giddy state? Absolutely not. Calvin and Hobbes is the greatest comic of its kind in the world. (And I have no reason to believe that a better one will present itself in the future) But why is it that this strip is always commended above all others? Because Calvin and Hobbes is perfectly, maddeningly balanced.

Cartoonists other than Watterson can be quite accomplished in one area. Some are filled with quality slapstick humor while others are fantastically witty. One cartoonist may be a spectacular artist while still others display thought provoking themes. In one sense, every cartoonist must have all of these elements running through his cartoon to be a successful strip. However, almost every cartoonist has his forte and his weak point. Not so with Mr. Watterson. When was the last time you finished a Calvin and Hobbes collection feeling as if you have wasted time? Never. Bill has painted a beautiful picture, told a wonderful story, written an essay on religion and sociology, and preformed a wonderful comedy sketch, all within those four confining panels. Here it is broken down:

First, The art of Calvin and Hobbes is spectacular. Watterson's style varies most between Sunday and weekly strips, but both have their own wonders. In the weeklies, the art is simple, usually only introducing one or two characters. But the beauty is plain to see. The edges of the characters and the scenery can be soft or distinct. But the wonder of it all is in the facial expressions. In many strips, you can cover the diologe with your hand and be able to guess almost word for word the characters conversation. The sighs of relief, shouts of surprise, and contortions of anger are imparted to the audience vividly, When you see the faces of Watterson's creations the corners of your own mouth almost automatically mimic those on the page.

Sunday's are the grand finale of "Calvin and Hobbes." After a story spread out over six days, the author takes a break and all hell breaks loose. Breath-taking action scenes on the planet Mars and wonderful vistas of Wattersons hometown envelop the audience, taking them to new places. Calvin and Hobbes can fly back in time to the Jurassic Age or look into the endless stars pondering life. With color in the mix, the author has so many more options. And boy does he take full advantage of them. Some of my favorite comic strips are when Calvin and Hobbes take a walk in the woods. The silent greys, browns, and greens speak volumes.

(more to come)

p.s. I wrote this many days ago when I had an hour to kill. One day, I will finish.
p.p.s. Packt Like Sardines in a Crushd Tin Can- Radiohead