Meaning: In the quote by Todd McFarlane, the artist is referring to a significant period in the history of comic books, particularly in the 1990s, when the industry was experiencing a major shift. This era marked a time when creators and artists were venturing into independent and alternative forms of storytelling, breaking away from the traditional confines of mainstream comic book publishing. The market at this time was also heavily influenced by speculation, with collectors and investors driving up demand for certain issues, often leading to an oversaturation of the market with variant covers and gimmicky marketing tactics.

During the 1990s, the comic book industry experienced a surge in independent and alternative comic book publications. This movement, often referred to as the "independent comics boom," saw creators and artists exploring new avenues for storytelling outside of the established mainstream publishers such as Marvel and DC Comics. This period gave rise to a diverse range of independent titles that offered fresh and unconventional narratives, often catering to niche audiences and addressing themes and subjects not commonly found in traditional superhero comics.

As McFarlane mentions, this was a time when people were "starting to break out into independent stuff," signifying a growing trend of creators seeking creative freedom and autonomy outside of the constraints imposed by larger publishing houses. This shift paved the way for the emergence of influential independent publishers such as Image Comics, which was founded in 1992 by a group of prominent artists and writers, including Todd McFarlane himself.

Furthermore, McFarlane's reference to the market being "choked with speculators" reflects the impact of the speculative bubble that gripped the comic book industry during the 1990s. This period saw a surge in demand for certain comic book issues, driven largely by collectors and investors who viewed comics as potential financial assets. This speculative fervor led to a proliferation of variant covers, limited edition releases, and other marketing gimmicks designed to capitalize on the burgeoning collector's market. As a result, the market became saturated with an abundance of high-priced, yet often artificially inflated, comic book offerings.

Additionally, McFarlane's mention of "everybody trying to do their own trick covers" alludes to the intense competition and marketing tactics employed by publishers and creators during this period. In an attempt to stand out in a crowded and competitive market, many comic book titles featured elaborate and eye-catching covers, often utilizing flashy gimmicks and special enhancements to attract buyers. This trend contributed to a proliferation of variant covers and special editions, some of which were produced in large quantities in an effort to cater to the speculative demand, ultimately contributing to the eventual collapse of the speculative bubble and a subsequent downturn in the industry.

In conclusion, Todd McFarlane's quote encapsulates a pivotal moment in the history of comic books, reflecting the transformative and tumultuous nature of the industry during the 1990s. The shift towards independent and alternative comics, coupled with the impact of speculation and marketing gimmicks, reshaped the landscape of the comic book market, leaving a lasting legacy on the medium and its creators. This period serves as a reminder of the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of the comic book industry, as well as the enduring influence of independent voices and creative innovation in shaping the future of the medium.