Timala Elliott
Timala Elliott
Poison Ivy #16
DC Comics
Written by G. Willow Wilson
Art by Marcio Takara
Colors by Arif Prianto
Letters by Hassan Otsmane-Elhaou
The Rundown: The life of Chuck, a victim of the lamia spore outbreak, is chronicled. Poison Ivy discovers something new.
Poison Ivy details the activities of a warehouse employee named Chuck after he is infected by the lamia spores. His symptoms start of small, and he goes about his life with family activities and work. Eventually, the spores overtake his body. Then, in a dreamlike sequence, he meets with Ivy and has a discussion. Next, Ivy has a revealing conversation with Undine. Later Chuck awakens to unusual circumstances. Finally, the effects of his actions on his family are shown as he embarks on the next chapter of his existence.
Undine Chuck Queen of Rebirth, Mother, Dreams is chuck trying to save himself or power through it. Chuck dies and is reborn (zombie)
The Story: I found this chapter to be particularly heart rendering and thought provoking. Wilson’s narrative regarding the life of Chuck is both terrible and relatable. His eventual demise from the lamia spores can be compared with the victims of Covid-19. In a pandemic there are always tales of regular individuals who suffer tremendous loss and pain. I was especially taken by Chuck’s inability, or unwillingness, to take time off work to deal with his condition. As well as his wife’s need to carry on with her daily tasks regardless of her worry for her missing husband. These reactions speak to society at large and makes a statement on what we as a collective hold dear. Poison Ivy’s growth in this series has been interesting to watch and I am curious to know how she handles even greater challenges in the future.
The Art: This issue uses traditional comic styling based on realism. The attention to detail in both character and locale setting does much to emotionally connect the reader to the tale. Although there is a lot of world building and relationship oriented art, there are some really interesting panels that hold a nightmarish quality to them. Overall, I found the creative team did an excellent job with matching the illustrations with the tone of the story.
Poison Ivy #16
