The Use of Lines in Comics

The comic I chose is from the tales of Popeye created by E.C.Segar. Although Segar has been passed for sometime, this is one of his original works.  There are so many different qualities to analyze in this comic strip. 

Starting with the most obvious, the use of gesture lines are everywhere in this comic. The gesture qualities help to make movement in flat, 2D pictures.  We can visualize movement between the two men fighting as well as see the strength of the punch.  Comparing the first and third images, it is easy to see that both men were hit, but we can also see that Popeye’s punch was much stronger, without even looking at the last slide of the comic.  The lines themselves convey the message of power in these images.

            Another quality that helps gives more life to the images are the use of the stars in the slides.  We discussed in class how a star could be symbolized as so many different things.  In this comic, the stars are representing the powerfulness of the punch as well as the dizziness caused.  Comparing the first and third images in the comic can make the reader better understand the strength of the punch.  Even though “BOP” and “SPLAT” are written into the action, it’s the lines and symbols that give the actions more meaning.

            In the last slide of the comic, we read that Popeye wins the argument and overall fight.  The last slide also uses eye lines to direct the conversation.  The man who was knocked out, Popeye and Olive Oyl’s eye lines are all pointing at the man in the barrel. These eye lines make it apparent that the man in the barrel was really the one that the whole fight was about.  Without the eye lines conveying so, we may have concluded that the larger man was the center of the conflict.

            The uses of textural qualities are minimal in this comic strip.  We do see a bit of texture in the larger man shirt and the soles of their shoes.  Also, when Popeye “splats” the larger man, his chin has a few texture lines showing that he’s been hit.  Although these are minimal qualities in the comic, they are important to convey the overall message that Segar was trying to give to readers.

What symbolizes me?

At first, this assignment seemed simple. But once I actually sat down to think about it, it wasn’t nearly as easy as I had thought.  The symbol I chose to represent myself is a heart and a triangle that are intertwined.  This symbol is recognized by parts of the adoption community. Although this symbol has come under some scrutiny, I believe it represents me in many different obvious and meaningful ways.

            First and foremost, I was adopted so the symbol is meaningful in that respect.  It shows the connection of love between all three parties, birthparents, adoptive parents and the child.  I’m very grateful for the life and opportunities that I’ve been given, and I have both sets of parents to thank for that.

            This image means much more to me than representing adoption.  As I am a bit of a busy person, I am always involved in multiple things at one time.  Although multitasking is biologically not possible, I feel like I multitask everyday.  The triangle in the image represents my daily life.  More specifically, the lines of the triangle can represent things such as school, work, relationships, family and friends.  All of these things are connected, whether I’d like them to be or not.  At times, life is stressful.  Now, with the added tasks of graduation and job searching, my platter is quite full. 

            But the heart in the image represents my happiness.  Anyone who knows me knows that I try to get involved as much as possible, keep my grades up and work whenever I have the chance.  Although I love everything I’m involved with, it is very important that I stay optimistic and in good spirits.  Not only does it affect my work, but it also affects me as a person.

            The interweaving of the heart and the triangle explains me well.  I am very proud to say that I was adopted and wish people knew more about it.  The image also gives a very basic idea of how I view my life.

            When we really think about it, it is fascinating how such a basic image or symbol can convey so many different attributes about so many different things.  I’m looking forward to hearing more examples in class!