In a 22-page comic, figuring an average of four to five…
“In a 22-page comic, figuring an average of four to five panels a page and a couple of full-page shots, a writer has maybe a hundred panels at most to tell a story, so every panel he wastes conveying a.) something I already know, b.) something that's a cute gag but does nothing to reveal plot or character, or c.) something I don't need to know is a demonstration of lousy craft.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Effective storytelling in comics requires each panel to advance plot, character, or theme; filler panels dilute narrative impact.
In simple terms: Every panel must serve a purpose.
Key Takeaway
Eliminate unnecessary panels.
Themes
storytelling
comic art
craft
efficiency
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
instructional
reflective
When to use this quote
- graphic novel planning
- storyboarding
- editing
- character development
Key Concepts
narrative economy
visual pacing
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you decide which visual details are essential?
- Can a seemingly trivial gag reveal character?
A Different Perspective
Not all panels can be essential; some visual flair may be needed for mood.