The one who most asked for this series was me. It’s that thing, you know – “No one: … / Me: All my comics and a new series tying them all together!” Suffice to say I didn’t know that I was doing during the run of On The Rock, and when I started Press ESC I had the barest glimmer of an idea but no idea where it ended. This time is different.
I’ve completed all three steps. Yeah, big deal, right? A webcomic doesn’t always conform to the constraints of a traditional 24 page print comic or daily newspaper comic. The beauty of the medium is that it doesn’t have to. I can do experimental things like having in-universe commentary from outside forces that affect the story, and are affected by the story.
Buddy is one of those characters who deserves a semblance of life, but this mess narratively works. I know, it’s crazy, but in this case the worldbuilding was already done. I just had to put it all together. Admittedly that is a work in progress, but I can see how all of the pieces of his past will fit, and it’s going to be fascintating to see how it all plays out.
I never imagined writing a story like this, but one of the saving graces of creativity is that it is responsive as a communicative medium. Daily newspaper strips do that – they reflect the world we live in, but this tale will do that in its own way. I think it’s relatable, feeling like you’re yanked around from one objective to the next, unsure about the who, what and why.
I can’t promise Buddy a happy ending, but I can promise him an ending that makes sense. My readership is a quiet lot, and I’m okay with that, being an introvert. There’s something to be said for the ability to just work things out and get things done. I don’t plan on being chatty, but I’ll probably speak up every once and a while when it feels necessary.
Whatever you’re struggling through out there, just know that you’re not alone, even if you feel that way. Don’t believe the lies that tell you that we are alone. I know from experience that family is around us, particularly when we seek them out. Whatever you believe, know that the value of good work cannot be underestimated.
We stand on each other’s shoulders, so let us be mindful of that.
Thank you for who you are. Do good. Stand tall. Cry if you need to. Take care of yourself so you can be there for those who need you. Surround yourself with good people, and good companions.
Let’s work together for the betterment of everyone.
While there is life, there is hope.