When something like the Speakeasy situation happens, I usually just sit back and look at what smarter people have to say on the subject. Because really, what I know about the economics of comics publishing and anything resembling high finance could comfortably fit in half of a hollowed-out Skittle, with plenty of room left over. (And to anyone who got a good chuckle out of the use of “comics” and “high finance” in the same sentence, you’re welcome.)
But reading the updates and analysis and noting that the fourth issue of Elk’s Run is due out today, I find myself a little more wistful than I would normally be at yet another industry implosion.
I met the Elk’s Run crew at SPX this year. In the brief exchange, they struck me as smart, enthusiastic people, proud of their comic and eager to get it into as many hands as they could. They were happy with the move from self-publishing to Speakeasy, though they gave no indication of letting up on their personal efforts to promote the book. They seemed to be having fun.
And I have to admit, it was in large part their likeability that had me walking away with the first three issues. (Okay, they were offering them at a really good price, too.) After I read the issues, they seemed like even more of a bargain, because they’re really solid entertainment. I’m definitely in for the remainder of its run.
And it makes me a bit depressed to see these smart, enthusiastic, talented creators plagued by delays and shifting fates and choosing between paying their letterer and buying groceries. As writer Joshua Hale Falkov said to Buzzscope:
“We can’t afford Previews ads anymore; we’re drastically cutting back on our convention appearances this year; and, we’re switching all of our comp list over to digital copies of the books. Right now, all we care about is getting the book out, and come hell or high water we’re going to do it.”
It’s unfortunate, to say the least. I mean, I know that these are hardly the first creators to contend with publisher screw-ups, nor will they be the last, but there’s vague additional sting this time around. I hope Falkov and company find a better situation for their next project.
So what can drive me out of this funk? Today’s arrival of the third volume of Owly: Flying Lessons (Top Shelf). Even the anticipation has me a little giddy.