Annotated 37-20
This page is pretty great. As I said last time, Gravedust is sorta leaving E-Merl in the lurch because Gravedust has his own, slightly subtler trauma he needs solitude to process. But bearing that in mind, he at least says the best goodbye to E-Merl that he possibly can, echoing Bandit’s belief that E-Merl can fulfill a greater role than the one the world’s assigned to him. And that advice about Rachel, falling back on an old man’s wisdom instead of a mystic’s privileged knowledge, not only addresses the issue of her total loss but also foreshadows upcoming changes for Gravedust.
This advice, more than “the Peacemakers are your tribe”, will help E-Merl, down the line. But as of right now, he’s just not in the right headspace to make use of it.
Clair’s bit is partly funny, partly somber. She’s not going to stop helping our heroes, but she’s starting to accept that doing so won’t be all thrills and giggles like it used to be.
… to be honest, Gravy also kinda sucks at pep talks.
It’s amazing the way words shape the world.
You forgot to tag Clair.
But you tagged Byron? Why?
…Is he in the bag?
Byron weighs heavily on Gravedusts mind AND shoulder.
My thanks for spotting Clair! Someone else spotted Byron the other day.
I love Gracedust! That being said we need an adventures of E-merl sequel!
This page is amazing . It hits me on many levels. Two friends trying to connect despite the pain they both are consumed with . Panel one E-Merl face of slightly pained resolve to look past his pain to connect with Gravedust. Gravedust’s face in panel 4 where it looks like he just woke up to finally see his friends pain and connect . As one who has been blessed with friendships that span generations in age , it hits to hear Gravedust’s perspective of many years be imparted to encourage a young man . This also resonates with my work helping many work through grief or my personal dealing with the loss of a friend old enough to be my mother.
No one’s ever lost forever
When they die they go away
But they will visit you occasionally, do not be afraid
No one’s ever lost forever
They are caught inside your heart
If you garden them and water them
They make you what you are
___
Amanda Palmer — Lost
https://amandapalmer.bandcamp.com/track/lost