Meaning: This quote by Jaime Hernandez, a renowned comic book artist and writer, speaks to the essence of storytelling in the visual medium. In this quote, Hernandez emphasizes the primacy of words and images in his storytelling, downplaying the significance of panel sizes and shapes. His comparison of reading comics to watching a movie underscores the immersive and captivating nature of the medium.

Jaime Hernandez is best known for his work on the comic book series "Love and Rockets," which he co-created with his brothers Gilbert and Mario. The series, which debuted in the early 1980s, is celebrated for its rich storytelling, complex characters, and innovative approach to visual narrative. Hernandez's quote offers insight into his creative process and the elements that he prioritizes in his storytelling.

Hernandez's assertion that the sizes and shapes of the panels are unimportant to his stories reflects a focus on the content and emotional impact of his work. By downplaying the significance of these formal aspects, he suggests that the heart of his storytelling lies in the words and images themselves. This sentiment aligns with the idea that the essence of storytelling transcends the technical and formal considerations, emphasizing the emotional and narrative power of the medium.

The comparison of reading comics to watching a movie is particularly illuminating. It underscores the dynamic, immersive nature of comics as a visual storytelling medium. Like a movie, comics have the ability to draw readers into their worlds, engaging them with a combination of visual and textual elements. Hernandez's use of this analogy speaks to the cinematic quality of his storytelling and the powerful impact of his visual narratives.

Moreover, Hernandez's emphasis on words and images as the primary drivers of his storytelling aligns with the fundamental nature of comics as a visual medium. Comics combine the textual and visual elements to create a unique and compelling narrative experience. The interplay between words and images allows for nuanced storytelling, where the visual cues and textual content work in tandem to convey meaning and evoke emotional responses.

In essence, Hernandez's quote sheds light on his approach to storytelling and the emphasis he places on the core elements of his craft. By prioritizing the words and images over formal aspects such as panel sizes and shapes, he underscores the emotional and narrative depth of his work. His comparison to watching a movie highlights the immersive and captivating nature of comics, positioning them as a medium capable of drawing audiences into rich and evocative storytelling worlds.

Ultimately, Jaime Hernandez's quote encapsulates the essence of his approach to visual storytelling, emphasizing the power of words and images in conveying compelling narratives. It offers valuable insight into the creative priorities of a celebrated comic book artist and serves as a reminder of the emotive and immersive potential of the medium.