Making Comics_ Storytelling Secrets of Comics, Manga and Graphic Novels - PDF Room

Scott McCloud

An author and cartoonist known for his influential works on comic theory, including 'Understanding Comics'.

Storytelling Secrets

Techniques and principles used in creating compelling and effective narratives within comics, manga, and graphic novels.

Clarity

The quality of being clear and easy to understand, especially in visual storytelling.

Panel

A distinct segment of a comic page that contains a specific moment in the story.

Frame

The border that contains the artwork in a panel, influencing how the action is viewed.

Character Design

The process of creating a character's appearance, personality, and behavior.

Body Language

Non-verbal communication through gestures, postures, and facial expressions that convey emotions and intentions.

Emotional Primaries

Basic emotions that form the foundation for more complex emotional expressions, such as joy, sadness, fear, and anger.

Choice of Moment

The decision-making process for determining which moments to depict as panels in a comic.

Narrative Flow

The pacing and transition of storytelling within a comic, guiding the reader's experience.

Word Balloons

Graphic elements that contain dialogue spoken by characters, typically resembling a balloon or oval shape.

Subjective Motion

A visual storytelling technique that makes readers feel they are experiencing the motion along with a character.

Montage

A collage of images or sequences used to convey a narrative or thematic connection.

Genre Maturity

The evolution and refinement of a specific genre within comics, leading to more sophisticated storytelling techniques.

Pictorial Narrative

The telling of a story through images, often used in sequential art forms like comics.

Visual Distinction

The characteristics that make a character or scene recognizable and memorable.

Scripting Techniques

Different methods used in writing comics, including how to format dialogue and describe scenes for artists.

Webcomics

Comics published online, often taking advantage of digital formats and distribution.

Panel Transitions

The ways in which a comic moves from one panel to another, influencing the reader's understanding of the flow of time and action.

The Four Tribes of Comics

Categories identifying different artistic values and philosophies among comic creators: Classicists, Animists, Formalists, and Iconoclasts.