Tom Beland takes an different approach with this fifth issue, but since this is an autobiographical book, I guess he didn't have a choice in the matter. Still, separating this segment of the stor of his burgeoning relationship with Lily in an issue of its own was a smart move. Every issue before this one was such a celebration of life, but this one has a gloomier mood looming over it. It makes for a nice shift in the tone of the story, and brings an even greater credibility to Beland's real-life experiences. Furthermore, the reader finds more common ground with the creator, enabling him or her to connect even more with him and Lily.
Tom, still pining away in Napa Valley for a woman who's the width and depth of a country away, sees that a tropical storm is headed in Lily's direction. Understandably, he's worried, but Lily insists there's nothing to be concerned about. It's just part of life in Puerto Rico, she says. Speaking of which, Tom finds himself thinking more and more about what it would be like to move there to be with her, but such happy thoughts are soon eclipsed by news about the weather in Lily's corner of the world.
Beland's simple, cartoony style is a bit of a smokescreen, you know. Sure, he captures a light, universal tone in his characters, but behind them, one can see Beland's eye for detail and perspective. He brings his Napa Valley neighborhood to life in this issue, and he does it so well that I would imagine readers will be able to recognize it if they walked down the street depicted here. I also love how he brings variety to the characters even with his simple designs.
I've never had a loved one in the middle of any real danger, so one might think I wouldn't be able to relate to Tom's mood here. But the story isn't about danger or even worry. It's about powerlessness. Ever seen a friend or lover in trouble that you can't help them with? All you want to do is protect that person, or lash out at the person or circumstance causing them distress. But you can't. On that level, it's remarkably easy to relate to Tom here.
I've had my moments at work when I've lost my cool, or when I was ready to explode in the face of someone else's incompetence, laziness or lack of respect. I've been in that plce when something else is weighing down on you, and it makes the small pains in the ass in the workplace seem like major transgressions. Again, Beland takes an interesting chance here, opting to reveal himself to the reader, warts and all. It's that honesty that makes True Story such a pleasure to read... and re-read.
