Meaning: The quote by Garth Ennis, a well-known comic book writer, sheds light on the uncertainty that creators often face in the world of comics. Ennis is known for his work on various iconic comic series, including "Hitman," which he co-created with artist John McCrea. In this quote, Ennis reflects on the unpredictability of whether a particular comic series will be collected and preserved for future readers.

Ennis' statement captures the precarious nature of the comic book industry, where the fate of a series being collected and preserved in a more permanent format, such as trade paperbacks or hardcover editions, is not guaranteed. This uncertainty stems from the fact that not all comic book series receive the necessary attention or achieve commercial success to warrant a collected edition.

The "Hitman" series, which ran from 1996 to 2001 under the DC Comics imprint, followed the story of Tommy Monaghan, a contract killer with supernatural abilities. Ennis' writing in "Hitman" was lauded for its blend of dark humor, complex characters, and gritty storytelling, making it a cult favorite among comic book enthusiasts.

Ennis' acknowledgment that not everything he writes is automatically assumed to be collected speaks to the reality faced by many creators in the industry. While some series may enjoy widespread acclaim and commercial success, others may struggle to find a dedicated audience or fail to attract the attention of publishers for a collected edition.

The decision to collect a comic series often depends on various factors, including its sales performance, critical reception, and the publisher's strategic considerations. Additionally, the preferences and priorities of the target audience play a significant role in determining which series are deemed worthy of preservation in a collected format.

For creators like Ennis, this uncertainty means that they must approach their work with a certain degree of detachment from the expectation that every project will be collected. Instead, they focus on crafting compelling stories and engaging characters without being overly preoccupied with the potential for their work to be preserved in a collected edition.

Despite the uncertainty expressed in Ennis' quote, "Hitman" did, in fact, receive collected editions, affirming its enduring relevance and appeal to readers. The series was later compiled into trade paperbacks and omnibus editions, ensuring that fans could continue to enjoy and revisit Tommy Monaghan's adventures in a more permanent and accessible format.

Ennis' quote serves as a reminder of the dynamic and unpredictable nature of the comic book industry, where the fate of a series being collected is not predetermined. It also underscores the significance of dedicated readers and collectors who play a vital role in advocating for the preservation of noteworthy comic series, ensuring that compelling stories and memorable characters are not forgotten.

In conclusion, Garth Ennis' quote encapsulates the uncertainty and unpredictability inherent in the comic book industry when it comes to the potential for a series to be collected. It highlights the challenges that creators face in navigating the ever-changing landscape of publishing and the pivotal role of readers in championing the preservation of impactful and enduring comic series.