This is a manifesto vaguely inspired by something I read about Zach Helm several years ago. It was a set of guidelines he made for himself regarding his screenwriting, and although I found the idea wonderful, it did lead to Mr. Magorium’s Wonder Emporium, so I’m not sure I can call that a win. Actually, since he did Stranger Than Fiction first, I think it still averages out as a plus. Anyway, here goes.
The Document
I will make comics. These comics will fall into the following categories.
1. Things that are funny. I don’t think this needs much explaining. Primarily, I would like to find it funny. If other people also find it funny, all the better.
2. Things that are strange. I like things that are different.
3. Things that are beautiful. Be it visually or intellectually.
4. Things that are interesting. Be it visually or intellectually as well.
If a comic is not one of those four things, it will, at the very least, be true. This truth may be literal (a true story), or cosmic (insert your own personal concept of a metaphysical truth here).
Comics are not excluded from falling into more than one of these categories. The norm should actually be to exist in at least two, and often more.
I will make comics because I am inspired to, because I want to, because other people want me to, because I am compelled to by forces internal. And, some day, I will make comics because it is my living.