Asterios Polyp is not your average read. This interesting graphic novel immediately stands out as one of the more uniquely designed works with very stylized characters. The story follow Asterios, a Cornell University professor, in his life after an unfortunate incident caused the loss of his home. As resembled in his design, his heightened nose gives the idea of a self involved, prideful nature. He is a bright man, so Polyp decides to begin anew and start a new chapter of his life as a mechanic.
Clearly meant to be a novel meant for a more mature audience rather than a younger generation, the topics addressed tend to be more serious than normal cartoons. Polyp's late brother is the narrator of the tale, and allows the reader to see different sides of his story. The dark sides Polyp would rather want to hide from the viewer, or events that aren't exclusive to him are available for story. The idea of a spirit telling the tale is very different to me, and I enjoy how we have the potential to see everything, without the tainted view of the living.
The light blue and red colors used are very effective in terms of delivering tones/mood for the story. High tension scenes or dramatic composition is achieved with the more bold contrast between stark blue and red. I feel this is a strong connection for the ups and downs of life's unpredictability. The harsh reality is appealing in this novel due to its style, and I am able to be easily hooked. I hope to finish it soon, and I recommend giving it a look.
