March: the life of John Lewis in graphic novel
The March trilogy autobiographically recounts the life journey of congressman and activist John Lewis. This graphic work documents his path from a farm in Alabama to becoming a key figure in challenging racial segregation in the United States. 🎨
A graphic journey through history
The book details fundamental moments in the struggle for civil rights, such as sit-ins at lunch counters, the Freedom Riders campaign, and the iconic Selma march. The narrative focuses on how Lewis forms and acts, always employing nonviolent protest as the main weapon.
Key points of the historical plot:- Explores Lewis's childhood and political awakening in the segregated South.
- Details the meticulous organization and strategy behind civil disobedience actions.
- Shows the physical danger and moral urgency faced by the protesters.
A story about pacifism told with a visual force that makes you feel the blows and chants on its pages.
The visual power of Nate Powell
Artist Nate Powell defines the work's atmosphere with a black-and-white visual style. His expressive brushstrokes and ink handling convey the emotional intensity of the events, alternating between silent sequences and others loaded with action. This approach helps the reader perceive the tension and risk of the era. ✒️
Art characteristics:- Employs strong contrast to mark moments of climax and stillness.
- The ink conveys movement and emotion, making the story highly immersive.
- The style reinforces themes of struggle, hope, and resistance.
A narrative that connects eras
The story is framed during Barack Obama's presidential inauguration in 2009. From this symbolic point, the narration goes back to explore Lewis's youth. This narrative structure allows contrasting the long path of the struggle with a moment that represents a possible culmination point. The three volumes intertwine past and present to show the lasting impact of the movement. 📚