Graphic Update: Wilson

Last Sunday's park reading is this week's tragic review. Inquire within.

Almost like looking into a mirror. Only the mirror has aged me 30 more years and I’m a balding white man. Otherwise, spot on. I haven’t read all of Clowes’ stuff, and after Wilson I think I know why my brain subconsciously tries to limit my exposure to his wonderful wit. It’s a touch too depressing.

Coming from the creator of Ghost World and Art School Confidential, Clowes popped up on my radar after a couple friends suggested I start reading his latest story of melancholic triumph in Wilson.

Wilson is a man who seems to know his place in the world, moreover, he’s grown pretty unhappy about it. The layout of each page suggests single, brief moments in Wilson’s life directly effect the next. Usually in a tragic fashion.

Be sure to read this panel in particular during this year's Thanksgiving Day dinner.
I expected nothing less than a well-written morose tale of a middle-age man seeking a connection -- with, well, anyone. Wilson’s neurosis and narcissism manage to keep him from ever holding or maintaining a relationship. Again, maybe a bit too close to home, but something that warrants a read.

You’ll find discussions of sex, adoption and, you guessed it, kidnapping. Maybe it’s because it’s Summer and I’ve grown [temporarily] fond of seeing the rosier side of life, I needed a companion book to accompany the dark wit of Clowes. That being said, this is a quick read and well worth the money spent.

For the hip parents out there, remember when your child misbehaves, read this harrowing tale of mortality gone awry to them. It’ll put everything in perspective, and possibly make you the coolest parent ever -- that is if you’re not reported to child services.