Sequential Crush

DC Serial Romance Story - Alex Toth's "20 Miles to Heartbreak" Part Four

2013-05-22T16:55:00.000-05:00

I really kept you hangin' on this one, didn't I? The last time we saw sisters Melanie and Monica Winters in an episode of "20 Miles to Heartbreak," was way back in November! Sorry for keeping you so long from the searing conclusion! In case you didn't read the three other installments, get caught up on them here: part one, part two, and part three. This episode originally appeared in Young Love #79 (March/April 1970).* You can definitely tell from its overtones of equality and social justice, that this Barbara Friedlander penned story is a product of the early 1970s. No doubt with the gorgeous art by Alex Toth and Vince Colletta, it held up well into the late '70s when it was reprinted, and continues to stand the test of time.

After cleared in charges of abducting Melanie, Juan Ricco is set free. Melanie's mother and stepfather (Roger) attempt to convince her that they are on her side.

In reality, they just want Melanie to marry "respectable" Bill. When Melanie declares she will be marrying Juan instead, she is greeted with a swift slap to the face by mommy dearest. Juan whisks Melanie away from the scene, and Melanie's mother declares to her husband that her youngest daughter is dead to her.

Meanwhile, older sister Monica gets her mack on with Roger's brother (and Melanie's attorney), John. Despite the events of years ago and the (albeit wrongful) reputation Monica garnered at the hands of her mother, John never stopped loving her.

When mother and Roger burst into John's office and find Monica in John's arms, the girls' mother can't help but take a jab at Monica with a backhanded compliment about changing her ways. A great fury inside Monica is released, and the two get into an intense argument.

Later, Melanie and Juan discuss their future plans. They talk about heading to New York, but Melanie changes her mind and tells Juan they should stay put in her small town and make everyone pay for how they treated them during the trial and the events leading up to it.

Mature and peace-loving Juan knows what's up. He explains to Melanie that she doesn't really love him, but is using him as a source of revenge against her mother. Juan assures Melanie he is there for her, but as a friend. That Juan -- pretty classy guy, if you ask me.

And so, the four episode story arc concludes in a bittersweet fashion with Melanie and Monica packing their things into John's car. The three are headed to New York to begin their new lives. Before they take off, Melanie attempts to say goodbye to their mother. Unflinchingly, mother ignores her own flesh and blood and is left to dwell in her own misery.

The ending is certainly tragic, but we can be glad that Melanie was spared the same fate of bitterness as her mother -- all thanks to Juan, and her own resolve to stay strong in the face of hate. Pretty heavy stuff for romance comics! "20 Miles to Heartbreak" is not only beautifully rendered, is also a rather interesting recurring set of stories. Though romance is an undercurrent, it is more a tale of parental relations and self-discovery. In its subtlety, the moral of the story is both effective and moving.

*Scans for this installment are from the reprint issue, Young Love #125 (May 1977)

How Can I Love a Member of the Establishment?

2013-05-17T12:15:00.000-05:00

"How Can I Love a Member of the Establishment?"

Story: Stan Lee, Pencils: Don Heck, Inks: John Verpoorten

My Love #5 (May 1970)

Girl, I honestly don't know. How can one love a member of the establishment? In the second counterculture-themed story from My Love #5 (May 1970) that I told you about last week, college student Lorna falls for "the grooviest male on campus." But groovy he certainly is not! According to Lorna's hip friends, "He's an organization man!" They warn Lorna not to go there, but all she can think about is instructor Walter Price's dreamy ways.

Lorna is surprised and delighted when Walter takes a mutual interest in her. The two start dating, and Lorna's evenings are suddenly filled with sophisticated trips to art galleries and the theatre.

Once Lorna's friends and acquaintances find out about the pairing, all hell breaks loose. Lorna is now a traitor to the student power movement.

Despite being head over heels for Walter, Lorna does feel some dissonance. She knows that by dating Walter and skipping the protest she herself helped organized, she is sacrificing her own principles. Things get even worse later that evening when Lorna comes home to a note from Aggie that the student committee has planned another protest and she has been selected as one of the leaders. Lorna knows that if she refuses to lead the demonstration as asked, she will be turning her back on her peers. At the same time, participating in it could cause her to lose Walter. That night, Lorna thinks long and hard about her difficult decision. Will she chose love or the movement?

In what may surprise some readers (especially those familiar with the Charlton career stories), Lorna chooses the movement.

"It had to be this way!

I couldn't betray my beliefs --

just for a boy!"

As the protest rages on, Lorna is convinced she sees Walter through the crowd. It turns out it is him, and Lorna moves in his direction without hesitation. She is confused over his presence at a students' rights rally (surely something he would have no interest in as a member of the establishment). But Walter sets Lorna straight. He is for justice for all. Even if he is "one of them." And so, the story wraps up nicely, with Lorna having learned an important lesson:

"...A girl can be true to her convictions --

without losing what she wants the most!"

Definitely a different ending for this Marvel story than many other romance stories from the genre's history. By questioning her principles and her desires instead of just blindly going with her heart, this is a memorable and uniquely 1970s story. In my opinion, this internal struggle is part of what makes the romance comic book characters so appealing, and ultimately, relatable.

Have a Great Weekend!

Romance and Reality - The Harsh Truth About Marriage from Charlton

2013-05-13T09:07:00.000-05:00

"Romance and Reality"

Sweethearts #110

(May 1970)

I know, I know. This huge wall o' text doesn't look as exciting as the previous post about wild, long-haired hippies, but it too is important -- so give it a read. To sum it up, our mystery advisor speaks of a young woman named Diana. Diana's main problem is that of "how to get a husband." Diana's primary fear? Winding up an old maid. The author fears that Diana wishes to marry for all the wrong reasons, and has some harsh words for her and girls of her ilk. With divorce rates on the rise at the time, it is no wonder the author of this filler piece was scared. And while much of the piece sounds outdated to our modern ears, I agree with some of the points made in the piece, namely:

"For marriage is not an escape from home. It is not a solution to one's personal problems... a lot of the happiness or misery in a marriage is the resultant of the views of the people to it. And how they stand up under the conditions and situations of life itself."

That said, the notion of romance as implicitly fleeting is not one that I buy. But what can I say? I'm a romantic! I hope you all had a nice weekend!

Was He Too Mod... Too Far-Out for Me to Love?

2013-05-08T14:43:00.000-05:00

I've been thinking a lot about the hippies, swingers, and beatniks of the romance comics lately. And with good reason -- there are a ton of stories in them featuring members of the counterculture. I have one for you today from Marvel, and it may just win the prize for best story title ever. Let's take a look at "His Hair is Long and I Love Him!" from My Love #5 (May 1970) by the creative team of Stan Lee, Gene Colan, and Frank Giacoia. Brace yourselves -- this guy's hair is long, but Liz don't care!

Liz is completely taken by Ronny Langdon. Problem is, Liz's dad isn't having any of it. He is prejudiced against guys with long hair! Business is bad and Liz's dad has no time for insignificant "long-haired clowns." He hasn't even met the guy, but all the same, he insists that Ronny is just no good for his daughter.

But in her heart, Liz knows the real Ronny. He is so much more than just groovy clothes and a controversial hairstyle. And just because he is into music and not business, doesn't make him irresponsible! But dad thinks Liz ought to date future accountant, Harold Evans.

The next day at school, Liz bumps into Harold. He asks her out, and when rebuffed declares, "I never thought you'd make the hippie scene, Liz!" Poor Liz, she just can't catch a break!

Except from Ronny. He knows how to make a girl feel good. Later that evening at one of his gigs, Liz's mind wanders back to her disapproving father. Uggh! Why can't he just see what a catch Ronny is!

After the show, Ronny tells Liz that he thinks it is high time he met dear old dad. Liz tries to refuse, but Ronny lets her know how much he cares about her and he can't bear the thought of her father not wanting him to date her. When Liz tries to get Ronny to go home, he grabs her hand and utters, "C'mon baby! You wouldn't wanna be proposed to by a chicken, wouldja?"

As the two make their way into the house, they overhear Liz's mom and dad discussing her future. They fear that Ronny won't be able to provide for her. Well, mom and dad! You are wrong! Ronny stuns with quite the ricochet maneuver. Not only does he ask for Liz's hand in marriage, he gives her father the name of the banker who handles the gobs of money he has earned from his music career. Liz's father's mind is instantly changed -- long hair isn't so bad after all. And though Liz's father no longer needs the money, he does see that Liz needs Ronny.

So in the end, long-haired rebel Ronny really isn't that rebellious. Turns out he is actually kind of on the conservative side! Now, this very same issue contains another story of the counterculture with an equally as exciting title, "How Can I Love a Member of the Establishment?" But, it has a very different ending. Stayed tuned next week and I'll share that one with ya!

Happy Birthday, Win Mortimer!

2013-05-01T12:44:00.000-05:00

Today let's celebrate Win Mortimer, as he was born on this day in 1919! Though he is no longer with us, Mortimer's work stands as a lasting testament to the beauty of the romance comics. The selections below are all Mortimer penciled one-pagers from 1974 issues of Young Love and Young Romance, and run the gamut from confessional-style poem to cautionary tale. Any other Win Mortimer fans out there?

"Love Has No Voice"

Young Love #109

(April/May 1974)

"How to Lose Your Boyfriend"

Young Love #111

(August/September 1974)

"The Kiss Test"

Young Love #113

(December 1974/January 1975)

"Your Eyes of Love" and "Just Waiting"

Young Romance #198

(March/April 1974)

"My Creed"

Young Romance #199

(May/June 1974)

"Silent Song of Love"

Young Romance #199

(May/June 1974)

Mad Mad Modes for Moderns Mondays - Geometry + Fashion = Romance!

2013-04-29T08:49:00.000-05:00

"Mad Mad Modes for Moderns"

Girls' Love Stories #132 (January 1968)

Illustrated by Jay Scott Pike

It's been a while since we've had a "Mad Mad Modes for Moderns" around here, so let's start the week off with a gorgeous Pike piece. It's amazing that though this fashion spread is 45 years old, these outfits are just as relevant today as they were then. Maybe not the copy so much, but the dresses -- yes! Fashion illustration at its finest, my friends!

DC and Charlton Tackle the Zodiac

2013-04-24T16:54:00.000-05:00

Oh this cover! It gets me every time! It is so kooky, sooo groovy... I absolutely love it. With it, Girls' Romances #152 (October 1970) gave the world the gift of "Horoscope, Don't Fool With My Heart!" with art by Ric Estrada (yes, I have been on an Estrada kick lately!) and Vince "Love Him or Hate Him" Colletta. Since I myself am a Taurus (and it was my birthday this past Monday), this story is quite apropos. Enjoy, and be sure to read to the end of the post for an extra bonus story!

Ginny is a devout believer of the zodiac. But as you will see, she soon learns that her intense reliance on it can also bring harm.

One morning Ginny wakes up, beside herself with excitement -- today is the day her horoscope predicts she will meet the man she is destined to fall in love with. She keeps her eyes peeled and her heart open. After all, who knows when Cupid will strike?

After work, Ginny stays out on the town -- soaking up all the city has to offer, in search of her one true love.

Much to her disappointment, nothing pans out. Men of various astrological signs had passed her way all day, but none that she felt meshed with her Pisces sensibilities. But then, just before midnight as Ginny climbs into bed, there is a knock at her door.

At the door is her upstairs neighbor, Walt. He can't find his key to get into his apartment and asks Ginny if he can use her fire escape window to enter his place. He then asks her if she will have dinner with him the following evening to make it up to her. Before agreeing, Ginny is sure to ask his sign. Taurus! A perfect match!

And so, as their signs are compatible, Walt and Ginny go out on a date the next evening. And it goes great! Even though Walt does think she is kind of a nut.

I exhibit many of the classic Taurean symptoms --
artistically inclined, warm and loving...

susceptible to sore throats?

Ok, maybe not that one!

Ginny is in heaven. But, her friends at work warn her that Walt will soon tire of the shtick, so she better get off her horoscope dependency. Ginny ignores their advice and continues to plan her and Walt's dating schedule around what her chart recommends. A few months later, when Walt is offered an amazing opportunity for a job interview, Ginny is ecstatic for him, until she reads his horoscope. Just as he is set to leave for the airport, Ginny calls him to her apartment. She has come down with a terrible fever and needs to be taken care of. Walt is sweet and forgoes the interview to take care of her citing, "Jobs are a dime a dozen... there's only one you!" But later in the day when Walt goes to give Ginny a soothing hug, he discovers that her illness was just a hoax to get him to stay!

Though Ginny was just trying to protect him, Walt has decided he has had enough with her astrology obsession. Who can blame him really?

"...they're too much of an influence on you!

I'm sorry, Ginny, but that's more tension than I can take!"

Just as Ginny swears off horoscopes for the rest of her life, Walt runs back down to her place after receiving a call from his boss. A big contract has come through that turns out to be a much better opportunity than the one he almost left for. Though in the end the zodiac was almost the downfall of their romance, it may just be the glue that keeps them together!

♥♥♥

This post wouldn't be complete without the following additional story from Charlton's Secret Romance #15 (October 1971), published one year after DC's "Horoscope, Don't Fool With My Heart!" As you read it, you will discover that it is eerily similar -- right on down to the conspicuous use of lingerie and the key forgetting, fire escape using, attractive Taurean neighbor. It is so similar in fact, it really can't be a coincidence. I am guessing that someone over at Charlton really dug "Horoscope" and was like, "We can totally do that!" And so they did, and with signature Charlton bizarro factor. Click on each page to enlarge and read the Leandro Sesarego illustrated, "Taurus, Where Are You?"

Your Weekend Agenda, 1972 Edition - Getting Ready For a Date!

2013-04-12T11:30:00.000-05:00

Going out tonight with that special someone? Have five hours to spare? Good! Then you are all set to prepare for a night on the town, romance comic book style! Just a warning -- this is quite the rigorous regimen, and you will need a raw egg. Curious to see what else getting ready for a date in 1972 entailed? Click the page below to keep reading!

"How To Get Ready For a Date"

Falling in Love #129

(February 1972)

I Know You Are Dying To Know... "The Truth About Men!"

2013-04-09T21:59:00.000-05:00

I had quite the scare the other day... I thought my trusty computer died on me. But somehow, I was able to bring it back to life. Phew! Crisis averted and thankfully I didn't lose this post as I had originally thought! Anyway! This evening I have for you the beautifully illustrated "The Truth About Men," from Falling in Love #104 (January 1969).

As depicted on the cover, raven-haired beauty Noelle overhears her boyfriend Jim and his secret girlfriend discussing when they are going to break the news of their relationship to her. As Noelle runs off from the soda shop, Jim tries to stop her. When he catches up to her, he explains that he didn't want it to end like that. Fess up, Jim! You just didn't want to get caught!

Noelle is crushed. When she returns home she tries to figure out what went wrong. Naturally, she thinks back to the past. She never really had any reason to be jealous -- Jim always came back to her. Even the time when Noelle's little sister told her that she had witnessed Jim out with another girl, Noelle remained calm. Good thing too, because on that occasion, the "other woman" turned out to be Jim's cousin.

But no such luck this time. Jim's infidelity was real. To aid in her grieving, Noelle decides to pick up some reading material, and a romance comic at that -- Secret Hearts! After reading the issue, Noelle decides to write to advice columnist Ann Martin about what happened with Jim.

And what do you know?! Noelle receives a letter back! Miss Martin writes...

"The reason he stopped loving you is because he never really loved you in the first place... and the sooner you learn to face that fact, the better off you'll be... My advice to you is to take yourself in hand... and get over it... start going out with other fellows as soon as you can..."

Noelle takes Miss Martin's advice to heart and opens herself to the possibility of dating other guys. That very same day, Noelle meets Cary, and it is love at first sight. Just two weeks later they start going steady.

As their whirlwind romance is just getting started, Cary announces that he has to go out of town. He asks if Noelle will wait for him, and she of course agrees.

But... when a friend's brother comes home from college, all bets are off. Noelle is instantly attracted to Bill. She feels herself heading into slippery territory, so she makes a dash for it.

Bill goes after her. Noelle explains that she is practically engaged and besides, she can't keep falling in and out of love like "an actress in a love movie." Bill tries to reason with her. If she can feel something for him, then she never loved Cary to begin with. And suddenly, Noelle is struck with a thought. A lack of true love is precisely what Ann Martin said about Jim's abandonment of her. Noelle explains this to Bill and realizes that she doesn't hate Jim for what he did to her, but rather, is thankful for it because it led to meeting Bill. Now... to just explain all this to Cary!

Besides the très mod Ric Estrada pencils, I love how this story incorporates a main element of the romance comics -- the advice column! Ann Martin sure had a corner on the whole "He's Just Not That Into You" thing didn't she?!

Candace Bushnell must have read romance comics

at some point in her formative years!

Follow Sequential Crush on Bloglovin'!

2013-04-05T15:44:00.000-05:00

I am sure you have heard -- Google Reader is going to shut down on July 1st. I know lots of you use it to read blogs such as this one right here. There are lots of alternatives and I hope that no matter what you choose that you will continue to read Sequential Crush! I personally would like to recommend Bloglovin'! It has a nice clean design. I really dig it and I think you will too! If you have any questions, please let me know! Have a great weekend!

Nice and simple, right? My blog reader of choice!

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Happenings - Fab Tresses!

2013-04-01T14:12:00.000-05:00

"Happenings!"

Young Love #77

(November/December 1969)

I hope you all had a nice holiday weekend! Wow, it's April -- hard to believe! Anyway, here is a gorgeous springy "Happenings!" featurette all about hair. I am still working on figuring out who this artist is, but one thought is Ric Estrada. No matter who was responsible, they did a nice job of really capturing the stylistic beauty of the late '60s!

"Mother, Let Me Go!" - A Story of Liberation

2013-03-25T16:22:00.000-05:00

Cover of Secret Hearts #151
by Werner Roth and Vince Colletta

Hello and Happy Monday! I hope you had a great weekend. If you didn't read my last post that introduces the dynamic of parental liberation in the romance comics, do that first! Then come right on back and read "Mother, Let Me Go!" from Secret Hearts #151 (April 1971).

This Lee Elias illustrated story introduces us to Elaine, her meddling mother, and Elaine's "date" Bruce. Except, as you will see, Bruce isn't really Elaine's date...

Bruce is actually the fiancé of Gail, Elaine's friend. Elaine just borrowed him for the evening to get her mother off of her back. You see, Elaine's mother is absolutely terrified that no one will marry her headstrong daughter. Marrying Elaine off has been her mother's be all and end all goal for Elaine since she was a little girl. Naturally, her mother's pushiness, spying, and meddling resulted in many an embarrassing moment for Elaine, not to mention exhaustion.

"...If I don't go out every single night,

you start pressing the panic button!"

Yeah, coming home to this after a successful first date... that's not embarrassing, right? Eep! Poor Elaine!

A few months later, Elaine confides in Gail that she is sick and tired of every date leading to a battle with her mother. She tells Gail that she is so tired in fact that she doesn't think she could even fall in love -- "I'm so completely drained of all feelings and desires... even for love!" But that doesn't stop Elaine's mother from hooking her up the new neighbor boy, Danny.

Things get "serious" between Danny and Elaine. In truth, Elaine is just seeing him to keep her mother happy. One day when Danny proposes marriage, Elaine has to tell the truth. Her mother is beside herself and goes so far as to tell Elaine that it would have been better if she had never been born at all.

Understandably, Elaine goes into a depression of sorts after her mother's tirade. One day while in the cafeteria, Elaine is approached by a history professor named Alan. One thing leads to the next and the two fall in love. Their engagement comes quickly, and only after Alan's proposal does Elaine bring him home to meet her mother. The story ends on a humorous note with Elaine's mother reverting to her old ways of bribery. Alan is forgiving, but he'll learn -- right readers?!

Not all 1970s romance comics dealt with the Women's Movement directly. Some, such as "Mother, Let Me Go!" effectively demonstrated the power of establishing one's self as an individual in the context of family as a clear first step in liberation for young women. Maybe not as marketable as hot pants, but important nonetheless!

A Girl's Guide to Liberation!

2013-03-21T12:42:00.000-05:00

Liberation! Such a provocative word! As used in the romance comics of the 1970s, it conjures up images of protests and yes, even hot pants. Unfortunately for us fascinated 21st century readers, the stories dedicated solely to "Women's Lib" are few and far between in the romance comics. Back when I purchased Falling in Love #117 (August 1970), I was super excited that "A Girl's Guide to Liberation!" would be a fascinating document doling out advice to budding feminists of the era, and would provide me with further insight into how the Women's Movement was portrayed in the comics. But what I read in the interior article was something far different than my expectations. Click on each page to enlarge!

Though a bit clinical, this piece on breaking away from parents is a good solid read. Completely fitting for a comic magazine that was geared for girls and young women.

Join me Monday for a bit of a part two to this post. I will be sharing with you "Mother, Let Me Go!" a story from Secret Hearts that really exemplifies the struggle of the parent/child liberation dynamic! See you then!

Miss Young America Winners as Depicted by John Romita!

2013-03-19T10:19:00.000-05:00

Remember this call for entries for the Miss Young America contest that I posted last year? Well, today I have for you two of the winners! These lucky ladies were featured in Young Romance #140 (February/March 1966). As their prize, they were given the original sketch of themselves by none other than John Romita! Lucky indeed!

Two things struck me about this filler page. First of all, it was published in the comic horizontally -- something that wasn't too common for one reason or another. The other thing that is interesting about this page is that in 1966 when this issue was on the newsstands, there weren't any African-American characters in the DC romance comics. Yet, the presence of Lessie Williams as a winner clearly demonstrates that young women from various ethnic backgrounds were reading romance comics -- despite the fact that the genre depicted almost exclusively white characters. As you can imagine, I was pretty excited to stumble upon this page, as it reveals quite a bit about the readership of the romance comics!

A Look at Charlton's Career Girl Romances

2013-03-12T16:20:00.000-05:00

Of all the Charlton titles, I can conclusively say that Career Girl Romances is my favorite. Not just a hodge-podge of random romantic stories like some titles, Career Girl Romances focuses on girls who dream big. Unfortunately, some of the stories in the pages of Career Girl Romances are probably the ones that make people take such issue with the romance comics for being sexist and harmful. And yes, as you read these pages, you will see that these definitely don't have the socially progressive message that say, DC did or even the memorable "Nobody Wants a Girl Auto Mechanic!" that appeared in a later issue of Career Girl Romances. But, the following stories are a part of comic book history nonetheless, as well as the history of how women and relationships were depicted in the '60s and '70s. With these stories that are less than savory for us readers today, the woman's career is introduced on the splash page -- but by the last page of the story she has abandoned her ambitions for marriage. Let's have a closer look shall, we?

"Formula for Love" (1968) follows a "trained laboratory analyst" and scientist, Miss Halleck who always tries to maintain "cool, scientific detachment toward all men."

But, by the end of the story, our Miss Halleck has abandoned her career without any qualms. Meh, science!

"Formula for Love"

Pencils: Charles Nicholas, Inks: Vincent Alascia

Career Girl Romances #45 (June 1968)

In this next example, "Tennis or Kisses?" Marla Lund is a tennis pro. She loves her career, and excels at it.

By the end of the story, Marla has caught the heart of Reese Garner, and Reese has captured the heart of Marla's stern coach. Marriage is on the docket, and professional tennis will no longer be a part of Marla's life as a married woman.

"Tennis or Kisses?"

Career Girl Romances #57 (June 1970)

In "No Time for Kisses..." our leading lady is a show-stopping singer with adoring fans.

But as it turns out, Carl is a heart-stopper. Singing falls by the wayside, and soon, love and marriage are the "only career that matters!"

"No Time for Kisses..."

Pencils and Inks: Luis Avila

Career Girl Romances #62 (April 1971)

Now, "His Love Will Destroy Me" is a little different. From the splash page it looks like this story will turn out like the rest and love will trump career.

However, Gabe is a hunky egalitarian and decides that he and his girl should team up and pool their talents. Phew!

"His Love Will Destroy Me"

Career Girl Romances #60 (December 1970)

So yes, it's true. These stories aren't glowing beacons of progressivism. But, they do give us an idea of the overarching mentality of women's autonomy during the mid-century. It is interesting to see in these examples that marriage was definitely seen as a career path, and not just a practical part of life. Thank goodness for Gabe there at the end!

Happy International Women's Day 2013!

2013-03-08T13:34:00.000-06:00

"Today's Heartbreak!"

Pencils: Arthur Peddy, Inks: Bernard Sachs

Secret Hearts #137 (July 1969)

Happy International Women's Day! This year's theme is "gaining momentum." And although the romance comics of the '60s and '70s weren't anywhere near where we are at in terms of equality in depictions of womanhood today in media, it is pretty cool that our leading lady (above) was even given the chance in the pages of Secret Hearts to ponder choosing her career over marriage. By 1969, the DC line of romance comics was gaining momentum, indeed!

Familiar Imagery - Werner Roth's Handshake Panels

2013-03-05T14:39:00.001-06:00

Hard to believe that it is March already... and you know what that means -- Women's History Month! But, before we move on to that, I wanted to do a little follow-up post on last week's Lois Lane story. If you thought the last panel (above) of "I Am Curious (Black)!) from Superman's Girl Friend Lois Lane #106 (November 1970) looked familiar, then you are correct! Very similar imagery can be found in panels of two other stories I have covered here at Sequential Crush, "Someone to Love!" and "Black + White = Heartbreak!" -- and all three stories were penciled by Werner Roth.

"Someone to Love!"

Girls' Love Stories #159 (May 1971)

"Black + White = Heartbreak!"

Girls' Love Stories #163 (November 1971)

Here we go again...

Celia and Angela shakin' on it,

also from Roth's "Someone to Love!"

We can conclude from these examples that either Roth really loved drawing hands, or that he found the handshake a simple and powerful way to convey solidarity between characters of different races. Though we can't be sure if this visual shorthand was a conscious effort by Roth, it certainly defines his style in part (not unlike "The Tiny Fists of Mortimer" or the phenomena of "Kirby Krackle") and helps Roth's work stand out as some of the best in the romance comics.

Unlikely Romance - Superman's Girl Friend Lois Lane in "I Am Curious (Black)!"

2013-02-28T14:13:00.000-06:00

Today I have for you a story that I have been wanting to share for some time -- "I Am Curious (Black)!" from Superman's Girl Friend Lois Lane #106 (November 1970). Written by Bob Kanigher, and illustrated by Werner Roth and Vince Colletta, it is truly a story that only the 1970s could have birthed! And, perfect for both this last day of Black History Month and on the tail of the 75th anniversary of Superman. And yes, though Superman's Girl Friend Lois Lane isn't a romance title per se, as you may remember from my 2010 booklet The Look of Love, many of the Lois Lane stories contain romance comic-like qualities. And as you will see in this issue, Lois's concern with Superman's love for her ultimately makes it a romance story.

The title of this story is a play on the name of

the 1967 Swedish film, I Am Curious (Yellow).

Lois, reporter extraordinaire, is given the chance to write an article on "Little Africa" -- Metropolis's African-American community. Completely stoked about the possible career changing opportunity, Lois vows to tell it like it really is, "nitty-gritty" and all. Superman (err, Clark Kent) is wary of her ambitions and decides to check in on Lois.

Lois soon finds that her enthusiasm for her article subject is not matched by the people living in Little Africa. She is dodged by everyone -- schoolchildren, teens, mothers, and even a blind elderly woman who detects Lois's "whiteness" when she goes to explain her project.

When she comes upon a public demonstration, Lois is made an example of by the man lecturing and reminds his audience, "But never forget -- she's Whitey!" Though Lois knows she doesn't share any of the same sentiments that the man accuses her of, she does realizes the prejudices do exist for many.

Lois is frustrated by her inability to connect with the community of Little Africa. Luckily Superman swings by to check on her. Lois asks him to help her by turning her into a woman of color. A reluctant Superman brings her to his Fortress of Solitude and completes the dramatic transformation with his Plastimold machine.

Before she sets back out to continue her investigation, Superman reminds Lois that she will only be black for one day before her skin returns to its natural state. After a quick clothes change back in Metropolis into an Afrocentric outfit (one kinda wonders here why Lois didn't go shopping at a boutique in Little Africa to support the local economy!) Lois attempts to catch a cab back to Little Africa, but quickly learns after failing at that and a subsequent ride on the subway, that life as the Other isn't so easy.

Lois wanders into an ill-kept apartment building and has a cup of coffee with a woman who appears to be constantly battling the crumbling environment around her. Lois is touched when despite the woman's obvious hardships, she asks Lois what she can do to help her.

Soon after, Lois stumbles upon a man leading an impromptu class for children. While watching the exchange between teacher and students, Lois is approached by a man by the name of Dave Stevens who claims to recognize her. She recognizes him alright -- he is none other than the man who called her "Whitey." But, before she can say anything, Dave sees a group of teenage dropouts up to no good.

Lois follows Dave into the alley as he pursues the teens. The kids are dropping off a pile of loot to a couple of gangsters, and as Dave goes to stop them, he is shot by one of them. Superman quickly makes it to the scene before they can do further damage, and he quickly brings Lois and the weak Dave to a nearby hospital. The doctors inform them that Dave needs a blood transfusion, but they do not have his blood type (the rare O-) in stock due to lack of funding. Luckily, Lois knows she is a match so she volunteers to be Dave's donor.

As Lois and Dave lay side by side on hospital beds, connected to one another via tubes, Lois pleads for the injured man to wake up. Finally, much to her relief, Dave opens his eyes.

After the transfusion, Lois approaches Superman about an always touchy subject -- marriage. As she looks in the mirror at her altered self, she asks him if he would marry her even if she was black.

Though Superman briefly touches on the racial implications of her question and how he too is an outsider, he gives Lois the same answer he always does -- marriage between them could never happen. His enemies would kill Lois to hurt him. And before Lois can say anything else, she begins the transformation back -- ahead of schedule. A shocked nurse comes in to tell Lois that Dave has been asking for her. Lois panics and worries over Dave's reception of her in her current state. Superman tells Lois that she must see him or she will never know.

The last page of the story contains no dialogue, but the final panel says everything it needs to. There is hope for peace in the world after all.

This is definitely one of those comic book stories that could be dismissed as overly goofy from today's perspective. But taken in context of the time it was published, the socially-relevant message that underneath it all, we are all the same, must have been pretty powerful for young and old readers alike.

Selling Romance - Diversity in Wigs (Part Two)

2013-02-22T10:38:00.000-06:00

Click to enlarge!

Similar to an ad I posted during Black History Month 2011, this 1973 ad for "Permanently Styled S-T-R-E-T-C-H Wigs" from Charlton's I Love You #108 (September 1974) is a great reference for period hairstyles of the early 1970s. It primarily features hairstyles for African-American women, ranging from the everyday to the more fanciful ("Love Knot" anyone?). My favorite part of the copy -- "Gives you Exciting Sex appeal." Definitely a fine example of the commodification of romance and womanhood!

Love is All Around Us - Romance Comic Book Links!

2013-02-21T14:02:00.001-06:00

It probably comes as no surprise that in February -- the month of love, there would be a ton of romance comic book related things out there on the web. Here are a few links I saw that may be of interest to you!

Scott Edelman recently wrote a post pondering the differences between the covers of romance comics and romance novels while purchasing some original art for his wife, Irene Vartanoff. He then did a subsequent post of the story he ended up purchasing a page from.

Johanna Draper Carlson reviewed the Fantagraphics publication Young Romance: The Best of Simon & Kirby's Romance Comics. Have you picked it up yet?

Have time for a longer read on romance comics? Read CBLDF's historical look at them by Joe Sergi, "Tales From the Code: You've Lost That Loving Feeling." Sergi reiterates many of the same quotes from Wertham I did in my 2011 post, "Time Travel Tuesdays - Dr. Wertham Speaks Out on Romance Comics ."

Dork Shelf gives their pick on the most ridiculous romance comic book covers ever. The cover for Young Love #104 (June/July 1973)? No way! :)

Any thoughts on Marvel's plan to introduce a line of romance comic-esque novels based on Rogue and She-Hulk?

Spectergirl over at As Told to Stan Lee lends her always excellent sense of humor to Charlton's "There's More Than Tears!" published in I Love You #99 (September 1972) (panel at top from her post). Neighbors Bart and Evelyn get off to a bad start courtesy of a noisy typewriter, but soon, romance blossoms. Read the whole post here!

I hope you enjoy these links and be sure to visit the Sequential Crush Facebook page or my Twitter for more!

Romance + Floating Heads = Happy (Very Belated) Valentine's Day!

2013-02-18T14:36:00.000-06:00

Hello! I hope you all had a nice Valentine's Day last week! I am delinquent on this post, but unfortunately the last leg of my move had to take first priority. It was a little hectic and stressful, but I made it! Anyhow, today I have for you examples of floating heads. Yes, you heard that right -- floating heads. Quite common in the romance comic books actually. You will see as you scroll down that disembodied craniums were used in the romance comics to convey longing, confusion, and obsession! Please enjoy this emotion-filled, cerebral ride!

"Once I Was in Love"

Pencils: Charles Nicholas, Inks: Vincent Alascia

For Lovers Only #62 (December 1971)

"I Love You, I Hate You!"

Pencils: John Romita

Falling in Love #133 (June 1972)

"No Love for Lisa!"

Pencils: John Rosenberger

Young Love #90 (December 1971)

"When Strangers Meet!"

Pencils: Jim Starlin, Inks: Mike Esposito

Our Love Story #33 Cover (April 1975)

Reprinted from My Love #20 (November 1972)

"The Mirror"

Young Romance #199 (May/June 1974)

"Drops of Heartbreak"

Romantic Story #83 (July 1966)

"As Time Goes By!"

Pencils: Gene Colan, Inks: Dick Giordano

My Love #30 (September 1974)

"No Wedding Ring for Me!"

Pencils: Werner Roth, Inks: Dick Giordano

Young Romance #169 (December 1970/January 1971)

"Love Pass Me By!"

Pencils: Win Mortimer, Inks: Vince Colletta

Young Romance #166 (June/July 1970)

"We'll Never Meet Again!"

Pencils: John Buscema, Inks: John Romita

Our Love Story #2 (December 1969)

"The Drop-Out and the Debutante!"

Pencils: John Buscema, Inks: John Verpoorten

Our Love Story #19 (October 1972)

And to thank you all for being so patient with my neglect of Sequential Crush due to moving/life stuff, here is a full story for you that is chock-full of floating heads! It is called "How Can I Forget His Face?" from Heart Throbs #110 (October/November 1967), illustrated by none other than my absolute favorite --Win Mortimer!

Romance Comic DIY - Sew Here's How!

2013-02-08T19:03:00.000-06:00

Hey all! How have you been? As you probably read in my last post, I moved back to the United States a few days ago! I am currently visiting with my family before I move on to my final destination, so things have been a little hectic to say the least. But, I just wanted to say hello and share with you this cute little sewing tutorial that appeared in Young Romance #199 (May/June 1974) by the one and only Elizabeth.

I love this little featurette! Not only are the colors fun and vibrant, the subject matter was certainly practical for a teen audience with limited money to spend on clothing and accessories. With an original cover price of $.60 (equivalent to about $2.79 today), this two page tutorial helped make this 100-pager a great value!

Mad Mad Modes for Moderns Mondays - Swimsuits in the Winter!

2013-01-28T16:27:00.000-06:00

"Mad Mad Modes for Moderns"

Girls' Romances #147

(March 1970)

It's the end of January and I am totally sick of winter! I've been dreaming of a tropical vacation to stave off the funk that comes with the chilly wind and slush. But, since that isn't in the cards right now, I'm going to live vicariously through this 1970 "Mad Mad Modes for Moderns" featuring bright and sunny swimsuits!

How about you? How are you doing? You have probably noticed that things have slowed down again here at Sequential Crush. Well... I have another big relocation on the horizon. Those of you who have been around reading for a while know that in 2011 I moved to Denmark. It has been very exciting and a time of growth, but for both personal and professional reasons, I have decided to move on back to the United States! And, my friends, that move will be taking place at the end of this week! I am pretty excited, and of course scrambling about to get everything prepared! I have prepped a few posts for the coming weeks, but we'll just see how things go. So, long story short, if things are a little quiet, no worries -- I'll be back! As always, thank you for being the best readers around!!!

Understanding Comic Book Cover Dates

2013-01-25T09:12:00.001-06:00

Just wanted to share with you today this little DC house ad from Heart Throbs #104 (October/November 1966). Not only is it visually intriguing, I think it nicely illustrates the difference between comic book cover dates and actual publication dates -- which can get pretty confusing if you ask me!

This particular house ad advertises Girls' Romances #120 (cover date of October 1966, "on sale" date of August 25th, 1966) and Young Love #58 (cover date of November/December 1966, "on sale" date of August 13th, 1966). Why the two different dates? Well, these two comics both went on sale (or were technically "published") in August of 1966. The other dates (which are listed on the cover and indicia) refer to the date by which the comic was to be pulled off the newsstand in the event that any issues went unsold.

You have probably noticed that I always use the cover date here at Sequential Crush -- just a little simpler, and it is the industry standard when referring to older comics. Even though I use the cover date as a point of reference, when I am reading the romance comic book stories I always find it important to hold the earlier "on sale" date in mind to account for things that may seem outdated or out of place. The stories were of course for the most part written and illustrated even months prior to the sale date (though surely some were last minute additions), which must be accounted for also. Society, fashion, and popular culture were all changing rapidly at this time, and the romance comics appear to have done a pretty good job of incorporating true-to-life tidbits despite the rigorous publishing schedule -- adding to their magazine-like quality that was so popular with readers.

Artist Spotlight - Manny Stallman

2013-01-10T14:59:00.001-06:00

Earlier this week I presented a little mystery of sorts when I shared the 1966 Young Love #57 story, "How Long Can I Go on Loving the Man I Hate?" I was completely stumped on the artist, but luckily in the comments section, a few readers (including Nick Caputo of Marvel Mysteries and Comics Minutiae) were able to help me out! I now can concretely say after receiving their comments and doing some research on my end, that the artist responsible for the story in question is Manny Stallman.

"Girl on the Run!"

Girls' Love Stories #115

(November 1965)

Born in 1927, Stallman started in the comic book industry as a teenager. He had hopes of using his skills as an artist to break into the world of advertising, but Stallman worked for quite a few comic publishers before moving on. His first known published work was on a series of stories called Young Robin Hood in 1943 for Lev Gleason. In the following years, Stallman work for almost every publisher out there -- Atlas, Avon, Harvey, and Prize, to name a few.

"The Strange Tree"

Mystic #1 (March 1951)

Scan from The Horrors of It All

As you can see, Stallman also worked on a variety of genres including crime, horror, and romance. At times he just inked, as can be seen in this early example of Stallman's contribution to the romance genre:

"The Life of the Party!"

Pencils: John Guinta, Inks: Manny Stallman

Young Love #6 (December 1949)

Scan from the Simon and Kirby Blog

Stallman only worked on a few DC romance stories in the '60s, but they are quite special. Not only are they rare, but they posses a certain fervid charm. What a shock it must have been for romance readers in the mid-sixties to encounter art and layouts so drastically unique as his!

"Burn, Heart -- Burn!"

Girls' Love Stories #113
(August 1965)

Later on in his career, Stallman did get to that advertising work he had intended on when he was a teen. He went on to draw promotional comics for the ice cream chain, Baskin-Robbins, as well as for Big Boy. In his fantastic tribute to Stallman (which is definitely worth a read if you have a few minutes), Mark Evanier explains, "Manny’s Big Boy stories were just like Manny: sweet and utterly bizarre."

Adventures of Big Boy #73

Scan from the Grand Comics Database

Stallman passed away in 1997, but from all accounts, he is remembered as a genuinely kind man and a certainly interesting (though relatively unknown) part of comic book industry history. Now that I know what his art looks like, I will be sure to keep an eye out for more in the 1960s romance books and report back in a future post if I find any! What do you think of Stallman's romance work?