Meaning: The quote by Harvey Pekar reflects his personal experience with comics and the impact they had on his life. Pekar, an American underground comic book writer, is best known for his autobiographical series "American Splendor," which chronicled his everyday life in Cleveland, Ohio. In this quote, Pekar talks about his early familiarity with comics, his temporary disinterest during his junior high school years, and how his passion for comics was reignited later in life.

Harvey Pekar's statement about being familiar with and collecting comics as a kid aligns with the experiences of many individuals who grew up reading and enjoying comic books. For many, comics serve as a form of entertainment, escapism, and artistic expression. The colorful illustrations, engaging storylines, and larger-than-life characters often capture the imagination of young readers and leave a lasting impression.

Pekar's mention of losing interest in comics during his junior high school years is a relatable experience for many people who transition from childhood to adolescence. During this time, individuals often undergo significant personal and social changes, and their interests may shift as a result. As Pekar implies, his focus turned away from comics during this period, possibly due to the pressures and challenges of adolescence or the emergence of new interests and hobbies.

However, what sets Pekar's experience apart is his eventual return to comics later in life. This resurgence of interest speaks to the enduring and transformative power of the medium. Pekar's journey reflects the idea that passions and interests can ebb and flow throughout a person's life, and what may have been dismissed or forgotten in one stage of life can resurface and hold new meaning in another.

Pekar's renewed engagement with comics also highlights the potential for personal growth and self-discovery through artistic and literary pursuits. For Pekar, his return to comics led to the creation of "American Splendor," a groundbreaking series that offered a raw and unfiltered portrayal of his own experiences, thoughts, and observations. Through his work, Pekar demonstrated the capacity of comics to serve as a platform for genuine self-expression and reflection, challenging traditional notions of what comics could encompass.

Moreover, Pekar's quote sheds light on the diverse and evolving nature of the comic book industry. While some individuals may view comics as a passing phase of childhood, Pekar's experience illustrates that the medium has the potential to resonate with individuals across different stages of life. From childhood enthusiasts to adult collectors, comics have the ability to captivate and inspire diverse audiences, transcending age and background.

In conclusion, Harvey Pekar's quote encapsulates the personal journey of rediscovering and rekindling a passion for comics. His experience serves as a testament to the enduring influence of comics and the potential for individuals to find renewed inspiration and meaning in the medium throughout their lives. Pekar's own contributions to the comic book world exemplify the profound impact that personal experiences and introspection can have on artistic expression, resonating with readers and creators alike.

I hope this information provides a comprehensive understanding of Harvey Pekar's quote and its significance in the context of his life and work.