Graphic Novels

"Watchmen" is a comic book limited series by the British creative team of writer Alan Moore, artist Dave Gibbons and colorist John Higgins. Known for its rich use of symbolism to critique government and society, the series challenges readers to think critically about power, authority and individual freedom.

Comic Art. Illustrated Narratives. Manga. Web Comics.

How have graphic novelists channeled their talents for our common good? What action can you take today?

If you are a writer generating comic art, illustrated narratives or manga, here are ways you might harness your creativity and talents to inspire, mobilize and unite people around sociopolitical causes:

  • Share Personal Narratives: Many graphic novels use personal stories to highlight broader issues. By focusing on individual experiences, you can humanize complex socioeconomic problems, make them more relatable and poignant.

  • Include Detailed Visuals: When you incorporate detailed and evocative illustrations, you help convey emotions and situations that words alone might not capture. You can also provide a powerful visual impact.

  • Frame Historical Context: When you incorporate visuals about historical events to your narrative, you add context, depth and credibility. Often, this enhances emotional engagement with readers.

  • Shape Dialogue and Monologue: Illustrating dialogue and inner monologues helps convey characters' thoughts, feelings and struggles. With this technique, you can create a strong emotional connection with readers and highlight the human aspects of socioeconomic issues.

  • Boost Symbolism and Metaphor: Graphic novels often employ symbolism and metaphor to represent complex themes and ideas. These literary devices can make abstract concepts more tangible and relatable. Understanding a metaphor is like practicing empathy, a quality lacking among emerging and powerful world leaders.

Share Personal Narratives

Craig Thompson's "Blankets" is a coming-of-age graphic novel that touches on themes of poverty, religion, and family dynamics. His evocative illustrations and heartfelt storytelling create a poignant narrative that resonates with readers. It is one of thirteen titles banned from Utah public schools.

Include Detailed Visuals

Joe Sacco's works explore the complexities of war and conflict through detailed illustrations and a journalistic approach. "Safe Area Goražde" is based on personal experience during the Bosnian War in the U.N.-designated "safe area" of Goražde, a small Muslim town under military siege by Orthodox Christian Serb nationalists.

Frame Historical Context

"Persepolis" by Marjane Satrapi is an autobiographical graphic novel that addresses issues of political upheaval, war, and personal identity in Iran during and after the Islamic Revolution. Satrapi's illustrations and storytelling provide a deeply personal and impactful perspective on these issues.

Shape Dialogue and Monologue

Their graphic novel trilogy, "March", chronicles the life of United States civil rights leader John Lewis and his involvement in the struggle for racial equality. The narrative collaboration between Lewis and Nate Powell and illustrations by Andrew Aydin result in a compelling and visually engaging narrative that highlights the importance of social justice.

Boost Symbolism and Metaphor

Hajime Isayama's "Attack on Titan" is set in a world where humanity lives within walled cities to protect themselves from gigantic humanoid creatures. The manga has resonated with readers worldwide, inspiring discussions about authority, rebellion and the fight against injustice.

Art Spiegelman's "Maus."

Art Spiegelman's "Maus" is a groundbreaking graphic novel that addresses the Holocaust and its impact on survivors and their families. Spiegelman's use of anthropomorphic characters and powerful illustrations brings a deeply emotional and humanizing perspective to this historical event. In 1992, "Maus" became the first and only graphic novel to win a Pulitzer Prize.

American cartoonist and illustrator Jen Sorenson.
Award-winning editorial cartoonist Rob Rogers.

Rob Rogers often critiques political figures and policies, using humor and satire to highlight issues and provoke thought. Fired as editorial cartoonist by “The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette” for making fun of Donald Trump, he now publishes his political cartoons online.

Are you aware of graphic novelists who are mobilizing meaningful change in the world with their art form?