Mr. Wilson Teaches Literature

Marvel Comics has made an effort recently to bring some works of literature into the comic and graphic novel format.  Their renditions of portions The Wizard of Oz series (illustrated by Skottie Young) are just one example.

This blog post will not be discussing these efforts.  Instead, I'd rather look at another approach that Marvel took to classic literature: killing it.

Pictured Here: Killing It

In his mini-series, Deadpool Killustrated writer Cullen Bunn takes Deadpool (aka Wade Wilson), the regenerating, wise-cracking, fourth-wall-breaking mercenary out of the traditional Marvel universe and into what he dubs the "Ideaverse."  The essential premise follows on the heels of 2012's Deadpool Kills the Marvel Universe.  After coming to the realization that he is (gasp!) a fictional character, Deadpool sets off through a variety of alternate universes in an attempt to completely end his constant cycle of dying and being reborn.  Upon discovering the Ideaverse, Deadpool becomes convinced that each of the classic literary characters that he encounters there is an archetype for the heroes and villains that populate the various Marvel universes.

As he sets about his quest to destroy existence, a small group of notable literary figures led by Sherlock Holmes sets about preventing the end of all ideas.

What I found most interesting in reading the series was the larger question that it raised about the significance of a life where death is simply temporary.  Marvel has at least two major characters that showcase regenerative powers, often to the point that they seem immortal.  But Deadpool Killustrated and Deadpool Kills the Marvel Universe have taken a more philosophical approach (yes, I see the apparent irony in using Deadpool and philosophical in the same sentence).

Sure, you can read this series and simply enjoy the comic carnage.  However, you could also use it as a jumping off point for some significant discussion on life and death.  I, personally, enjoy having the more thoughtful content present, if I want to engage it.  I understand the implications that Bunn is pointing out in Deadpool's existential crisis.  I would have to agree that without permanence of death, life does lose meaning.

What do you think?

Fair warning, this comic is definitely not geared for children.  I have to at least pretend to be a responsible adult.

What're you waiting for?
Go get the comic!