Deron Generally
Deron Generally
Captain America #696
Marvel Comics
Written by Mark Waid
Art by Chris Samnee
Colors by Matthew Wilson
Letters by Joe Caramagna
Steve Rogers’ journey across America has landed him in Sauga River Georgia where he is low on money and alone. As he talks to Sharon, we learn that Steve’s trip is about more than redeeming his image in the minds of Americans, it’s also about the hero finding a place of his own and getting to know the people around him. A prospect he has found harder to do in his life when he’s living on S.H.I.E.L.D’s or Tony Stark’s dime. Hopefully, this will be the start of some fun character development for Steve where he has to make a life for himself on his own. Unfortunately, someone as recognizable as he is will find it hard to be anywhere and not get noticed.
As Steve tries to find a way to pay for a meal, he is recognized by the owner of the restaurant and is immediately set on by the patrons who want an autograph or a selfie and as the owner brushes those people out to give Steve a moment to enjoy a meal, someone else alerts the media of Captain America’s presence in Sauga River. After the press arrives and tries to interview the hero, Swordsman sees the footage and decides to kidnap the workers at the local dam, challenging Steve to stop him. Steve leaps into action and confronts the new Swordsman, who has a few new tricks up his sleeve and a weapon that rivals Steve’s shield.
There is a great fight scene between the two characters and Samnee does a great job of illustrating the power and grace of Captain America in combat. One of the things I enjoy from a character perspective, that Waid is able to capture in this issue, is the uncompromising ability of Steve Rogers to know what he must do next. While there are doubts and setbacks for Steve Rogers in his personal life, there is no hesitation when it’s time for Captain America to take action. I like the fact that Steve is no longer the fish out of water. He’s evolved into a man trying to find his place in society. He’s not in conflict with it anymore and that evolution allows for new stories to be told.
The Legacy stories for Cap are fun because they seem to be forming a bridge between the nostalgic and the modern. Pick this story up and give it a read.
