Meaning: The quote "It's business, selling comics, you work out what sells and you don't want to muck about with it too much" by Eddie Campbell, an artist, encapsulates the pragmatic approach taken by many creators and publishers in the world of comic books. It reflects the delicate balance between artistic expression and commercial viability that exists within the industry. This quote sheds light on the intersection of creativity and commerce, and the challenges faced by artists and publishers in navigating this complex terrain.

Eddie Campbell, best known for his work on the graphic novel "From Hell" alongside writer Alan Moore, has been a prominent figure in the comic book industry. His insights into the business of selling comics provide valuable perspective on the practical considerations that artists and publishers must contend with.

In essence, Campbell's quote suggests that the creation and dissemination of comics are fundamentally a business endeavor. Like any other commercial product, comics are subject to market forces and consumer preferences. Artists and publishers must therefore be mindful of what sells in order to achieve success in the industry. This sentiment reflects a pragmatic approach to the creation and marketing of comics, acknowledging the need to appeal to a target audience and generate revenue.

The phrase "you don't want to muck about with it too much" implies a reluctance to deviate too far from established formulas or proven techniques. This underscores the notion that successful comics often adhere to certain conventions and market trends. While artistic innovation and experimentation are crucial to the evolution of the medium, there is also a recognition that straying too far from what resonates with readers can be commercially risky.

Campbell's perspective aligns with the broader reality of the comic book industry, where commercial considerations exert significant influence over the creative process. The need to balance artistic vision with commercial viability can pose a challenge for creators, who must navigate the expectations of both readers and publishers. This delicate equilibrium shapes the creative decisions made by artists and the editorial choices made by publishers.

From a publisher's standpoint, understanding what sells involves analyzing market trends, audience demographics, and consumer preferences. Factors such as genre popularity, character appeal, and storytelling styles all play a role in determining the commercial viability of a comic. Publishers often rely on market research, sales data, and consumer feedback to inform their decisions about which comics to produce and promote.

For artists, grappling with the commercial imperatives of the industry can be a source of tension. The desire for creative expression may clash with the need to conform to market demands. Finding a balance between artistic integrity and commercial appeal requires careful consideration and often involves making compromises.

In conclusion, Eddie Campbell's quote encapsulates the pragmatic approach taken by many creators and publishers in the comic book industry. It underscores the need to navigate the intersection of creativity and commerce, acknowledging the influence of market forces on the creation and dissemination of comics. While the commercial imperatives of the industry can present challenges, they also shape the dynamic and evolving landscape of comic book storytelling.