The Virtual Memories Show Episode 461 - Matt Madden
Nov 23, 2021
In this discussion, Matt Madden, a cartoonist and teacher known for his innovative comics, delves into the making of his book Ex Libris. He shares insights on balancing formal experimentation with engaging storytelling, inspired by literary icons like Italo Calvino. Madden reflects on his creative evolution, including the challenges of style-switching and the impact of a two-cartoonist household with Jessica Abel. He also explores teaching comics in a diverse classroom, the influence of digital tools, and the necessity of mastering techniques before breaking the rules.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Library As Creative Constraint And Threat
- Matt Madden used Calvino and Borges as structural inspirations to create a book that lets many short ideas coexist inside a single narrative frame.
- He treats the library concept as both creative possibility and a nightmare of unreadable abundance.
Anchor Experiments With A Real Plot
- Balance formal experimentation with traditional storytelling to keep readers engaged.
- Use character tension and plot payoff to anchor playful formal devices.
Early Meta Cartoon Influence
- As a child Matt Madden loved B. Kliban's meta-cartoon strips that deconstructed cartoon language.
- He even references a Kliban strip about word balloons in Ex Libris.
