Last issue, Alec Holland, who doesn't have any superpowers, received a chainsaw through his back. He now finds himself in the familiar position of dying once again.
The Good
What is it with Scott Snyder and beating the crap out of the comic's main character? Alec Holland died in the moments before the birth of the Swamp Thing we knew. His remains were absorbed and used as a template. He was brought back to life and told that it was his destiny to actually become Swamp Thing himself. Refusing to sacrifice his newly restored life could mean the end of the Parliament of Trees and his life regardless. Now it appears the Rot has won.
Witnessing the death and destruction, the battle Alec has in accepting his fate or that of Abby gives the story an epic feel. This is the seventh issue and I'm still surprised at how great the story is despite the fact that Swamp Thing technically hasn't been in it. The story is filled with such despair but the art by Yanick Paquette and colors by Nathan Fairbairn actually make it feel more vibrant than previous issues. It's only the grotesque state of the Rot's agents that remind you just how creepy and dire everything is.
Seeing the story unfold, it feels as if this has been in place for years. I'm not sure when exactly Snyder was first given the green light to start working on these stories but it feels as if this was always how the story of Swamp Thing was to continue. It all simply feels so much larger than the average comic book story. I've been enjoying each issue but I can safely say this is my favorite so far. The combination of the suspenseful story with the art and colors just makes it all a wonderful package.
The Bad
As I was reading, I was trying to think how this would be for a 'new reader.' In some ways, there is a benefit to having read past issues to understand the relationship/dynamic between Swamp Thing and Abby. On the other hand, Snyder has made it clear, without having to use a lot of words or flashbacks. It would be possible to appreciate what is going on if previous issues hadn't been read but a lot would be lost on the new reader.
I do dig the cover but it felt a little off for this issue.
The Verdict
This issue is a game-changer. Alec Holland just got his life back and wanted to live a normal existence. His protest in doing what he was meant to do may have resulted in the end for himself and others. There is a lot going on in the background as we discover what the Alec's fate will become. Filled with suspense, the story is crammed with stunning art and colors that give it a vibrant feel, despite the extremely dark and harsh nature. There was concern as to how Swamp Thing would fit once integrated into the DC Universe but month after month this series is showing the characters don't have to be compromised or toned down. I get the impression that everyone involved poured a lot into making this issue. It's a big one and shouldn't be missed. SWAMP THING is the type of comic I want to read month after month. Things will change after this issue but there's no doubt how it will be since the series is in such great hands.