In the 1980s, it seemed everything that could be said with comic books had been said. Then came along several ground-breaking series and graphic novels, of which Watchmen, written by Alan Moore, was one of the most intriguing and complicated. And if all you’ve seen is the Watchmen movie, then you’ve missed out on a lot.

Batman is a recognizable comic book figure to nearly all readers, but are those readers familiar with some of the more unusual tales of the Dark Knight? Batman: Gothic is one such story, featuring Batman against a supernatural foe who is practically unbeatable.

The Hellblazer comic book, from DC and its Vertigo titles, holds a special place in the heart and mind of one fantasy author. Particular issue 63 of Hellblazer taught this writer a lot about building suspense, and only showing the reader what they need to know at any given point within a story without cheating the reader with late information.

Comic books have had their influence upon many writers and artists over the years, and one favorite has always been Captain America. This iconic red, white and blue muscle-bound figure also had an influence upon one fantasy author in particular.

The general reading public isn’t familiar with Cerebus, but they should be. Cerebus is an aardvark with an attitude. It’s also an independent comic book that’s been transferred into graphic novel format. It also happens to be excellent literature.

In the late 1980s and early 1990s DC Comics through its Vertigo titles took the comic book world by storm. One comic in particular lead the pack. That comic was The Sandman, written by Neil Gaiman. At the time, and since, The Sandman has been a major influence upon other writers. Of all the parts of The Sandman, Season of Mists has always been my favorite.

The Dark Knight Returns is more than a comic book. It’s more than a graphic novel. It is a tour de force of literature combining the graphic arts with strong writing. It has influenced plenty of comic book writers and artists over the years, but it also has had its effect upon prose writers, including one particular fantasy writer.

Poetry: Tragedy befalls us all, and when we least expect it.

Science fiction, comic-book style, on a universal scale.

A review on the comic issue for a preview of the Iron Man two movie and additional images.