“It’s about the journey, not the destination.” Saga lives by this credo and is tremendously loved by readers for crafting not only an exciting and unique adventure, but one that touches on quieter moments as well. [easyazon_link identifier=”B01G5FG4RQ” locale=”US” tag=”bounintocomi-20″]Saga #37[/easyazon_link] spends its time giving its characters the opportunity to take a quick breath as they begin the next chapter of their journey.
Alana, Marko, and Hazel are back together for the first time in years and while everyone is out of imminent danger, trouble lurks around the corner. They’re joined by Prince Robot IV who restlessly masturbates, bothered by the fact that he’s unable to complete a task so simple. Readers might laugh and gawk at the explicit art, but Saga doesn’t just flash dicks without reason. If you no longer have control over your body and its desires, what do you have control over?
We learn more about Petrichor, the newest addition to the group. I was originally irked by her inclusion on the ship instead of Klara’s, but in just one issue she proves to be an interesting choice, as Brian K. Vaughan does an excellent job with her characterization. Petrichor is a warrior that believes in herself and her autonomy, but even with all of her strengths, she’s still wary about how others will treat her being a transgender woman. However, she’s quickly reminded by Izabel that Hazel’s also dealing with similar issues. Having both horns and wings is even more taboo than being trans, and it’s these details that make the universe of Saga feel so genuine.
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As the ship loses power, the group has no choice but to land on the comet Phang, “an exotic land of boundless diversity, home to thousands of different tribes, sects, and species… almost all of whom despised each other.” It also happens to be Sophie’s homeland. The former slave is now ten years old and accompanied by Marko’s ex-fiancé Gwendolyn and the ever grumpy Lying Cat. With all of the major players accounted for, Saga sets the table for a number of exciting possibilities.
As usual, Fiona Staples’ art is astounding. Her gardens are like paintings and each character has a unique, fascinating (and often fashionable) style that feels like no other. The cover art is especially beautiful, featuring a multitude of winged soldiers in battle. As time passes for the characters, we even get to see updated clothing and hairstyles, all of which enriches the story. In an industry with a wealth of talented artists, Staples still manages to stand out with her work on Saga.
THE VERDICT
Saga took a risk by leaping forward in time, but these past few issues have shown that both Vaughan and Staples are more than capable of handling the task by introducing new character designs, character developments, and exciting storylines to come. While [easyazon_link identifier=”B01G5FG4RQ” locale=”US” tag=”bounintocomi-20″]Saga #37[/easyazon_link] spends its time catching readers up with its cast, it is by no means boring or uneventful and proves that quiet, smaller moments are a vital part of a meaningful journey.