The Wake #9

Written by: Scott Snyder
Pencils by: Sean Murphy
Colors by: Matt Hollingsworth

The Wake has been an interesting mini-series to say the least. In 9 issues we’ve gotten a century spanning, mythology bending story that really doesn’t let up. Snyder and Murphy have blessed us with something that was at once horrific and is now adventurous and eye-widening. Those are things that don’t usually go together. This issue is the bombastic moment that I’ve been waiting for after all the buildup of the past issue. There are still a few soft spots in certain characters, but I’m starting to think that being fully fleshed out isn’t as important as I once thought it was. This series is shooting for something mythic in nature.

That’s what makes this book feel different. Not that the topic is bizarre and out there (How many comics are about terrifying mer-monsters?) but because it’s literary in nature and attempting to elevate itself while maintaining a succinct story. In 9 issues it’s done more world-building than most series do in double or triple the amount of time. On top of that, it’s still remained somewhat personal to Lee and Leeward. Snyder and Murphy aren’t just creating a comic book. They’re telling a story in the oldest way possible, and it’s brilliant.

A bombastic, cliff-hanger of an issue that truly doesn’t let up once it starts, The Wake #9 proves that this is Snyder and Murphy working at their best. I’m sad and excited for the final issue next month.