Meaning: The quote by Robert Kirkman, an American comic book writer best known for creating "The Walking Dead," speaks to the importance of developing existing characters before introducing a multitude of new ones. This sentiment resonates not only in the realm of comic book storytelling but also in various other forms of storytelling and character-driven narratives.

Kirkman's quote reflects a fundamental aspect of effective storytelling, which is the depth and development of characters. It emphasizes the significance of allowing existing characters to fully shine and engage the audience before inundating the narrative with an excessive number of new individuals. This approach prioritizes quality over quantity and underscores the value of investing in the richness and complexity of the characters already present in the story.

In the context of comic book writing, where the introduction of new characters and the expansion of superhero teams are common occurrences, Kirkman's perspective serves as a reminder of the necessity to nurture and explore the potential of existing characters. Instead of succumbing to the temptation of continuously adding new members to a superhero team, Kirkman advocates for a more deliberate and measured approach that focuses on the organic growth and evolution of the characters already established within the narrative.

The quote also touches upon the concept of character exploration, indicating a desire to delve deeper into the inner workings, motivations, and backstories of the existing characters. This exploration is crucial for fostering a strong emotional connection between the audience and the characters, as it allows for a more profound understanding of their struggles, triumphs, and personal journeys.

By emphasizing the need to "give them more time to shine," Kirkman underscores the potential for existing characters to captivate and resonate with the audience. This approach not only enriches the storytelling experience but also lays the groundwork for more meaningful and impactful character arcs.

Furthermore, Kirkman's statement implicitly acknowledges the potential pitfalls of overcrowding a narrative with an excessive number of characters. Introducing a multitude of new individuals without adequately developing the existing ones can lead to a diluted and fragmented storytelling experience. By advocating for a focus on the current characters' growth and prominence, Kirkman highlights the importance of maintaining a cohesive and compelling narrative that prioritizes character depth and emotional resonance.

In a broader sense, Kirkman's quote can be interpreted as a commentary on the value of patience and investment in the storytelling process. It encourages storytellers across various mediums to resist the urge to rush into introducing a myriad of new elements and instead take the time to nurture and elevate the characters already present within the narrative.

Ultimately, Kirkman's perspective serves as a reminder of the enduring power of well-crafted and fully realized characters in driving the emotional core of a story. By affording existing characters the opportunity to shine and evolve, storytellers can forge deeper connections with their audience and lay the groundwork for a more compelling and authentic narrative experience.