D
D is the first chapter of a serial and is indicative of a more European style of comics, Montreal being a hotbed of foreign influences. It features the kind of epic storytelling, in which writing and characterization move the story instead of insipid jokes, that is too often lacking in comics. The plot follows the Ward family in Erith, England between the Wars. After the death of their parents three siblings must determine their fates. The guilt of responsibility falls on D’s reserved shoulders to carry on the failing undertaking business at a time when the British Empire is collapsing. Much of his tortured proper personality, but also his compassion, is revealed via flash forwards to his own funeral and the eulogies given by his sons. It’s no wonder D is a bit of a grump: War is declared on his wedding day, then his German Shepherd is burned alive because he is taking in Jewish refugees. The art is beautiful and perfectly suited to the grim story, shadowy black figures against a charcoal sky. It would be nice to see the whole series collected later and published as a glossy graphic novel. (AB)
comic, 36 pgs, $2, Michael Hind, Caterpillar Press, 9-385 Edouard-Charles, Montréal, QC, H2V 2N1