Key Takeaways
1. Comics Storytelling Relies on Five Core Choices
In these pages, I’ve done my best to cover the storytelling secrets I don’t see any other books talking about, the ideas every comics artist needs to tackle before they even pick up a pen...
Fundamental decisions. Making comics involves fundamental choices that shape the reader's experience. These aren't just about drawing skill but about how you guide the reader through the narrative.
The Five Choices:
- Choice of Moment: What to show in each panel.
- Choice of Frame: How to compose the panel view.
- Choice of Image: What to draw within the frame.
- Choice of Word: What text to include.
- Choice of Flow: How panels are arranged on the page.
Clarity and persuasion. These choices work together to achieve clarity, ensuring the reader understands the story, and persuasion, drawing them emotionally into the narrative world. Mastering them supplements instinct and helps troubleshoot problems.
2. Characters Need Believable Inner Lives and Visual Distinction
If many of our best stories include a major change in the outlook of a main character, the best of the best help us to undergo that change with them.
Beyond surface. Characters need depth, driven by their history, desires, and internal conflicts. Audiences connect more deeply when they can infer a character's feelings and motivations through actions and expressions.
Visual identity. Distinct visual design is essential for recognition and conveying personality. Consider:
- Height, weight, profile
- Expressive traits
- Body language and posture
Non-verbal communication. Facial expressions and body language are powerful tools for showing emotion and relationships. Studying real life and resources like Darwin or Faigin can enhance your ability to communicate non-verbally.
3. Words and Pictures Combine in Seven Distinct Ways
... COMICS CONSIST OF PICTORIAL NARRATIVES OR EXPOSITIONS IN WHICH WORDS (OFTEN LETTERED INTO THE PICTURE AREA WITHIN SPEECH BALLOONS) USUALLY CONTRIBUTE TO THE MEANING OF THE PICTURES AND VICE VERSA.
Synergy is key. Words and pictures in comics are two branches of the same tree, working together to create meaning. Their combination is not always equal or straightforward.
Seven types of combination:
- Word-Specific: Pictures illustrate text.
- Picture-Specific: Words add soundtrack/narration to images.
- Duo-Specific: Words and pictures convey the same meaning.
- Intersecting: Words and pictures partially overlap in meaning.
- Interdependent: Words and pictures need each other to make sense.
- Parallel: Words and pictures follow separate paths.
- Montage: Words are part of the picture.
Text elements. Word balloons, thought balloons, and sound effects are visual components that convey dialogue, internal thoughts, and auditory experiences, each with its own conventions and impact on flow and mood.
4. Building a Believable World is Crucial, Not Just Background
...THE RATIO OF ARTISTS PUTTING TOO LITTLE WORK INTO ENVIRONMENTS VERSUS THOSE PUTTING TOO MUCH IS ABOUT NINETY-NINE TO ONE.
Sense of place matters. Environments are not just static backdrops; they evoke mood, provide context, and can even be characters themselves. Skimping on "backgrounds" is a common mistake.
Establishing the setting. Effective establishing shots, whether wide views or fragmented sequences, immerse the reader in the world. Details, perspective, and even silent panels contribute to this immersion.
Reference and detail. Using reference (drawing from life, photos) helps capture the richness of the real or imagined world. Even simple styles can convey a strong sense of place through carefully chosen details.
5. Tools Evolve, But the Essentials Remain Simple
THE ONLY ESSENTIAL TOOLS ARE A WAY TO MAKE MARKS AND A SURFACE TO MAKE THEM ON.
Beyond the fancy. While technology offers many options, the core requirement for making comics is minimal: something to draw with and something to draw on. Expensive tools aren't necessary to start.
Traditional vs. Digital:
- Traditional: Pencils, pens (nib, technical, felt-tip), brushes (sable, synthetic), ink, paper (bristol board), erasers, rulers, lightboxes.
- Digital: Computers (Mac/PC), graphics software (Photoshop, Illustrator), drawing tablets/monitors (Wacom Cintiq).
Workflow and care. Regardless of tools, developing good work habits, taking breaks to avoid strain, and caring for your equipment are vital for a sustainable creative practice. Digital tools offer flexibility (layers, easy correction) but require backups and different skills.
6. Understanding Global Styles and Genres Informs Your Work
NO COUNTRY HAS ALL THE ANSWERS. CARTOONISTS EVERYWHERE TAKE SHORTCUTS. PUBLISHERS EVERYWHERE TRY TO CLONE WHATEVER WORKED LAST TIME. STORE SHELVES EVERYWHERE ARE FAR TOO SHORT.
Learn from diversity. Comics is a global medium with rich traditions in Japan (Manga), Europe (Bande Dessinée), and North America. Studying these different approaches reveals diverse storytelling techniques and priorities.
International influences:
- Manga: Strong character expression, subjective motion, aspect-to-aspect transitions, genre diversity.
- European: Emphasis on world-building, detailed environments.
- American: Historically focused on figure primacy, dynamic staging (post-Kirby).
The Four Tribes. Artists often cluster around different philosophies: Animists (story/character first), Classicists (craft/form first), Formalists (experimentation first), Iconoclasts (expression/individuality first). Understanding these perspectives helps navigate the comics ecosystem.
7. Making Comics Requires Dedication and Learning
YOU REALLY, REALLY HAVE TO WORK HARD. DRAWING COMICS REQUIRES PRETTY MUCH ALL OF YOUR FREE TIME...
A demanding craft. Making comics is labor-intensive and requires significant time and dedication. It's often described as challenging, even heartbreaking, but also deeply rewarding.
Developing your path. Finding your unique style involves experimenting, learning from others, and focusing on what genuinely excites you. Don't just chase trends or try to imitate others perfectly.
Continuous growth. The industry is constantly changing, especially with the rise of webcomics and digital platforms. Stay adaptable, keep learning, watch for patterns, and work diligently.
Review Summary
Making Comics receives high praise from readers for its insightful and comprehensive approach to comic creation. Many reviewers appreciate McCloud's clear explanations, practical advice, and engaging visual format. The book is lauded for its usefulness to both aspiring comic artists and writers, as well as those simply interested in understanding the medium better. Readers find it inspiring, entertaining, and educational, often comparing it favorably to McCloud's previous work. Some note its value extends beyond comics to storytelling in general, while a few mention certain sections may be more relevant to artists than writers.
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FAQ
What’s "Making Comics: Storytelling Secrets of Comics, Manga and Graphic Novels" by Scott McCloud about?
- Comprehensive guide to comics: The book is a detailed exploration of the art and craft of making comics, focusing on storytelling techniques, visual communication, and the unique language of comics.
- Beyond drawing skills: McCloud emphasizes that making comics is more than just drawing well; it’s about making storytelling choices that engage and immerse readers.
- Covers all aspects: Topics include panel composition, character design, world-building, the integration of words and pictures, and the tools and technology used in comics creation.
- Applicable to all styles: Whether you’re interested in graphic novels, superhero comics, manga, strips, or webcomics, the book provides principles that apply across genres and formats.
Why should I read "Making Comics" by Scott McCloud?
- Unique focus on storytelling: Unlike most how-to-draw books, McCloud’s work delves into the storytelling secrets and narrative techniques that are often overlooked.
- For creators and fans: The book is valuable for aspiring comics creators, teachers, and anyone interested in understanding how comics work on a deeper level.
- Practical and theoretical: It combines hands-on exercises with theoretical frameworks, helping readers both practice and understand the craft.
- Industry relevance: McCloud addresses the rapidly changing comics industry, ensuring the advice is relevant for both print and digital creators.
What are the key takeaways from "Making Comics" by Scott McCloud?
- Five storytelling choices: The book identifies five crucial choices in comics creation—moment, frame, image, word, and flow—that shape how stories are told.
- Integration of words and pictures: Effective comics require a balance and interplay between visual and verbal elements, using seven types of word/picture combinations.
- Character and world-building: Memorable comics feature believable characters with inner lives and distinctive designs, set in rich, immersive worlds.
- Tools and methods matter: The choice of tools, from traditional pens to digital tablets, influences the creative process but should serve the story, not dictate it.
How does Scott McCloud define the "Five Choices" in comics storytelling?
- Choice of Moment: Deciding which moments in the story to depict as panels, and what to leave out, to maximize clarity and impact.
- Choice of Frame: Selecting the distance, angle, and point of view for each panel, affecting how readers perceive action and emotion.
- Choice of Image: Determining the level of detail, style, and what visual information to include, balancing clarity with mood.
- Choice of Word: Choosing what dialogue, narration, or sound effects to include, and how they interact with the images.
- Choice of Flow: Arranging panels and page layouts to guide the reader’s eye and control the pacing of the story.
What are the "Seven Types of Word/Picture Combinations" in "Making Comics" by Scott McCloud?
- Word-Specific: Words carry most of the meaning, with images providing illustration or atmosphere.
- Picture-Specific: Images tell the story, with words adding little or serving as minor labels.
- Duo-Specific: Words and pictures send the same message, reinforcing each other.
- Interdependent: Words and pictures work together, each providing information the other lacks.
- Intersecting: Words and pictures follow different courses, with meanings intersecting at key points.
- Parallel: Words and pictures appear to follow separate paths without intersecting.
- Montage: Words are treated as part of the image, blending visually and conceptually.
How does "Making Comics" by Scott McCloud approach character design and development?
- Visual distinction: The book stresses the importance of making characters visually unique and easily recognizable, even in simple styles.
- Inner life and motivation: Characters should have clear desires, backgrounds, and personalities that drive their actions and relationships.
- Expressive traits: Mastery of facial expressions and body language is essential for conveying emotion and intent.
- Avoiding stereotypes: McCloud discusses the history and pitfalls of visual stereotypes in comics, urging creators to be thoughtful and original.
What advice does Scott McCloud give on world-building in comics?
- Sense of place: Creating immersive environments is crucial; backgrounds should evoke mood and context, not just fill space.
- Establishing shots: Use wide or detailed panels to orient readers and set the scene, varying the approach based on story needs.
- Reference and research: Drawing from life, using photos, and studying real-world details enhance believability and richness.
- Balancing detail: McCloud warns against both overloading and neglecting backgrounds, advocating for purposeful, story-driven choices.
How does "Making Comics" by Scott McCloud address the integration of words and images?
- Mutual enhancement: Words and pictures should work together, each enhancing the other’s meaning and emotional impact.
- Word balloons and captions: The book explores the design and placement of word balloons, thought bubbles, and captions for clarity and mood.
- Sound effects and lettering: Attention to the style and integration of sound effects and lettering can add energy and nuance to a comic.
- Experimentation encouraged: McCloud encourages creators to experiment with different combinations and to trust their instincts while remaining aware of the effects.
What tools and techniques does Scott McCloud recommend for making comics?
- Traditional tools: The book covers pencils, pens, brushes, paper, and inking techniques, with advice from various professional artists.
- Digital tools: McCloud discusses the transition to digital, including tablets, software like Photoshop and Illustrator, and digital lettering.
- Choosing what works: He emphasizes that the best tools are those that suit your style and workflow, not necessarily the most expensive or popular.
- Care and ergonomics: Practical tips include taking care of your hands, setting up a comfortable workspace, and maintaining your tools.
How does "Making Comics" by Scott McCloud compare comics styles and cultures (e.g., manga, European, American)?
- Cultural differences: The book examines how Japanese manga, European bandes dessinées, and American comics differ in pacing, framing, genre diversity, and visual style.
- Influence and convergence: McCloud notes increasing cross-pollination between styles, with artists borrowing techniques and genres from each other.
- Genre maturity: Manga is highlighted for its wide range of genres and storytelling approaches, while European comics are praised for world-building.
- No single right way: The book encourages learning from all traditions and finding a personal approach that fits your story and audience.
What are the "Four Tribes" of comics creators described by Scott McCloud?
- Animists: Focused on storytelling and character, aiming to create immersive, emotionally engaging narratives.
- Classicists: Value craft, beauty, and mastery of traditional techniques, often emphasizing clear, elegant visuals.
- Formalists: Interested in experimenting with the form and structure of comics, pushing boundaries and exploring new possibilities.
- Iconoclasts: Driven by personal expression, often challenging conventions and prioritizing authenticity over polish.
- Ecosystem metaphor: McCloud suggests that all four "tribes" are necessary for a healthy comics culture, and most creators blend elements from each.
What are the best quotes from "Making Comics" by Scott McCloud and what do they mean?
- "Learn from everyone. Follow no one. Watch for patterns. Work like hell." – McCloud’s personal rules for creative growth, emphasizing openness, independence, observation, and hard work.
- "Telling stories is why comics exist." – Highlights the centrality of narrative to the medium, beyond just drawing skills.
- "Every technique we use begins its life as a conscious process and, with luck, gradually becomes second nature." – Stresses the importance of practice and developing instinct through mindful learning.
- "You could ignore everything I’ve written and still produce a great comic. You could follow every suggestion I’ve made and still turn out a piece of crap." – Reminds readers that rules and advice are guides, not guarantees, and that creativity ultimately comes from within.
- "Comics is an ecosystem, and each of the four tribes has a role to play in keeping it healthy and growing." – Encourages respect for different creative philosophies and the diversity of the comics community.
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