Of the three trade paperbacks thus far collecting the current SWAMP THING run from Vertigo, SWAMP THING: HEALING THE BREACH is the best yet, even if it’s the toughest to describe.
Compiling issues 15-20, this BREACH baby begins with Swamp Thing still without his “powers,” so to speak, having earlier rejected them and the associated earthly responsibilities. Alec Holland’s mind is still floating out there in the netherworld, anxious to rejoin his old, root-strewn body, so he possesses the ailing mind of an old college professor to try to make a connection with Swampy. See, I told you it was difficult to describe, though it makes enough sense as you read. This arc comprises four of the six issues here, though the other two are related.
One of those is the most surreal SWAMP THING story yet, with a childhood Alec interacting with bizarre cartoon characters that pop out of his TV and show him glimpses of his future. But the final one is the real capper, with Swampy retreating so much that he becomes miniscule, fighting off spiders and ants on his way toward microscopic. It’s drawn by the legendary Richard Corben (recently of BIGFOOT), and his unique style is well-suited for this particular comic’s universe.
If you enjoyed the Lovecraftian direction of the previous volume, LOVE IN VAIN, you’ll be just as pleased with HEALING THE BREACH. Joshua Dysart’s storytelling could use a little tightening up to aid in clarity, but the art is all up to snuff, and you can just tell this title wants desperately to be the new SANDMAN. In terms of way-out weirdness at least, it’s already there. –Rod Lott
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