As a seasoned comic book enthusiast with over two decades of reading under my belt, I must admit that Robert Kirkman’s “The Walking Dead” has always been one of my favorite series. With its gripping storylines and unforgettable characters, it never ceases to amaze me how the creator keeps us on our toes with each new issue.
Recently, I had the pleasure of revisiting issue #104, a colorized gem from 2012 that brought back memories of the Alexandrians’ harrowing days under Negan and the Saviors. Reading through Kirkman’s original notes on an unrealized villain called “The Contractor” made me wonder what could have been, as I often do when delving into the world of comic book extras.
Kirkman’s plotting process, as explained in the letters column of this issue, is truly fascinating. His ability to plan ahead while maintaining flexibility and spontaneity is something I can only aspire to replicate in my own life (though I must admit, my “if-then” planning usually revolves around which coffee shop has the best latte).
The plot twists and turns of The Walking Dead never cease to surprise me. In issue #98, a major death that was originally planned differently served as a stark reminder that even the most meticulous plans can change at a moment’s notice (much like my own plans for world domination).
Issue #104 takes place during Volume 18: What Comes After, a particularly challenging time for our beloved characters. The young Carl Grimes’ heroic act in this issue is a testament to the series’ ability to evoke strong emotions and keep readers hooked.
All in all, I can’t wait to see what Kirkman has in store for us next, and I eagerly anticipate any new tidbits about unrealized villains like “The Contractor” or “The Gardener.” Until then, I’ll be here, plotting my own “if-then” scenarios for world domination (coffee shop edition).
Oh, and as a side note: if anyone knows where to find a reliable zombie apocalypse survival guide, please let me know. I’m running out of coffee shops to conquer!
In the course of 193 episodes, Rick Grimes and his fellow survivors on “The Walking Dead” encountered some of humanity’s darkest aspects. Antagonists such as The Governor, Negan, Alpha, along with groups like the Hunters, Scavengers, Saviors, and Whisperers, presented a chilling reminder that the greatest danger in the zombie apocalypse wasn’t just the walkers – it was the living. However, in this week’s “The Walking Dead Deluxe” #104 – a re-colored version of the 2012 issue – series creator Robert Kirkman’s annotations disclosed plans for a yet-to-be-realized villain named “The Contractor.” According to Kirkman, he wrote in the “Cutting Room Floor” section of the issue: “That, ladies and gentlemen, is an unrealized villain for the series. I don’t recall specifics about this particular villain. A cool name.
It’s a pity ‘The Gardener’ didn’t end up in the book,” Kirkman remarked. “One day, I’ll share its story with all of you.
In a letter section of the 2012 publication, Kirkman outlined his method for creating the storyline, stating he had a firm plan up to issue 200 and broader concepts that could be developed beyond that point. (The series ended with The Walking Dead #193 in 2019.)
Kirkman mentioned that he organizes the series into groups of 24 issues, which he calls ‘chunks,’ though they’re not strictly defined. He then develops the story as he writes, usually having at least four of these chunks planned out. However, sometimes unexpected events cause a new chunk to be added, causing him to adjust his plans further ahead.
The plans were frequently revised in this instance. In issue #98 of The Walking Dead Deluxe, it was disclosed that the significant character’s demise in the story was an unexpected alteration made at the last moment compared to the original plotting of the issue.
As a seasoned planner with years of experience under my belt, I find it comforting to have a clear path laid out before me, mapping out potential scenarios and possibilities. This approach helps me stay focused and organized, ensuring that I make the most of each opportunity that comes my way. However, I also understand the importance of leaving room for spontaneity and flexibility in life. That’s why I often find myself plotting ‘ifs,’ considering what might happen if I reach a certain milestone or goal. For instance, “If I get to issue No. 30, maybe this,” or “if I get to issue No. 50, maybe that.” This way, I can have a solid foundation of plans to build upon while still retaining the ability to pivot and adapt month to month.
That being said, I’ve learned over time that it’s crucial to maintain a balance between planning and spontaneity. After all, some of my most memorable experiences have come from unexpected opportunities that arose when I decided to “shoot from the hip” and just go for it. My #98 issue was one such occasion – an adventure that I never could have planned for but will forever be etched in my memory. So while I’ll continue to plot my ‘ifs’ and make plans, I’ll always keep an open mind and embrace the unpredictable twists and turns life may bring my way.
In the storyline of “Volume 18: What Comes After,” event #104 unfolds as the Alexandrians are under the control of Negan and his Saviors. Jesus from Hilltop, following Dwight, ventures into the Sanctuary. Meanwhile, a young Carl Grimes secretly joins a Savior’s convoy, and in an act of vengeance for Glenn (who was brutally killed by Negan, as depicted in issue #100 earlier), he ambushes Negan and his group with gunfire.
The Walking Dead Deluxe #104 is on sale now from Image Comics.
Read More
- HBAR PREDICTION. HBAR cryptocurrency
- IMX PREDICTION. IMX cryptocurrency
- MNT PREDICTION. MNT cryptocurrency
- XDC PREDICTION. XDC cryptocurrency
- TRB PREDICTION. TRB cryptocurrency
- JTO PREDICTION. JTO cryptocurrency
- FLOKI PREDICTION. FLOKI cryptocurrency
- LDO PREDICTION. LDO cryptocurrency
- Dandadan Shares First Look at Season Finale: Watch
- OKB PREDICTION. OKB cryptocurrency
2025-01-02 23:40