Skip to content

With comics, you've got to develop some kind of shorthand…

“With comics, you've got to develop some kind of shorthand. You can't make every drawing look like a detailed etching. The average reader actually doesn't want all that detail; it interferes with the flow of the reading process.” quote by Robert Crumb
Download Open image
“With comics, you've got to develop some kind of shorthand. You can't make every drawing look like a detailed etching. The average reader actually doesn't want all that detail; it interferes with the flow of the reading process.”

Robert Crumb

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Artists must use shorthand to keep readers engaged; excessive detail hinders narrative flow.

In simple terms: Use simple art to maintain reading rhythm.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize clarity over detail in visual storytelling.

Themes

art communication efficiency

Mood

thoughtful practical

Type

instructional reflective

When to use this quote

  • comic strips
  • graphic novels
  • storyboarding
  • illustrated manuals

Key Concepts

visual storytelling design principles

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is detail essential?
  • How does simplicity affect comprehension?
A Different Perspective

Complex detail may be needed for certain artistic goals.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Robert Crumb

Explore all 64 Robert Crumb quotes

More Actually quotes

Browse all 4,248 Actually quotes