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The Deep Freeze
'The Deep Freeze' is a work of short graphic fiction depicting several nested stories that explore the complexities of estrangmement.
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Research statement
Background Author C.S. Lewis defined theme as “something that has no sequence in it, something other than a process and much more like a state or quality” (Lewis, 2002, p. 17). What exactly this ‘state’ or ‘quality’ is depends upon the text in question, of course, but theme could be expressed as a unifying idea, or what Gérard Genette referred to as the text’s “chief object” (Genette, 1992, p. 32). Comics that demonstrate thematic complexity are increasingly common (Schneider, 2010). This has undergirded their standing as serious literature (Meskin, 2009). This short work of graphic literature seeks to explore a serious - even taboo - topic using the comics medium. Contribution In 'The Deep Freeze' (the NTRO in question), the authors and illustrator explore the issue of family estrangement through the stories of several dinner partygoers. Comics are a perfect vehicle for expressing complex ideas and controversial topics in an accessible way (Chun, 2009; Boatright, 2010; Carter, 2007; Versaci, 2001). Although pure fiction, 'The Deep Freeze' builds upon the work previously done by the authors in their Graphic Medicine text, 'Two-Week Wait: An IVF Story'. Like 'Two Week Wait', this short work of graphic fiction aims to use relatable characters to start a conversation about a topic that might otherwise be difficult to discuss. Significance The story was developed in response to a call-out, from Island Magazine, for short-form comics relating to a range of issues. Specifically, it was designed to address the issue of 'A life-changing event'. In her introduction to Issue 168 of Island Magazine, in which it is featured, Arts Features Editor Judith Abell describes it in this way: '"The Deep Freeze", written by Luke and Kelly Jackson, and illustrated by Thơm Nguyen, tells an all-too-familiar tale about the secret pain of estrangement. The work reflects how many of us battle with fractures in our closest relationships, often alone and in shame.'Editor/Contributor(s)
Jackson K, Nguyen TIssue
168Publisher
Island MagazinePlace of publication
Tasmania, AustraliaSource
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