He was by far my biggest influence in comedic storytelling.
As incredible as his art was, no one could tell a funny story--or tell a story funnier--than Will Elder! All those amazing and hilarious background gags and goofy puns and attention to detail made each of his pages a delight. It would take me twice as long to read one of his stories because I'd pour over every panel.
BTW, Groth is dead wrong. Being a "nice guy" has nothing to do with being a success (as evidenced by the success of Kirby, Barks, Hughes, Romita, Lee and others). I believe it may have had more to do with not staying with MAD and focusing on "adult" humor/comedy like his Little Annie Fanny. Most average comic readers just don't appreciate comedy like the general public, which celebrates its comedians. Many MAD artists achieved commercial success but Bill went off with Kurtzman instead.
However, financial success is not the same as genuine or aesthetic success, which Elder achieved in spades. His work will live forever, which is more than many can say for their career.
I thank God I got to meet him at the EC reuinon in San Diego a few years ago...very nice gentleman and still very funny. Thank you, Bill!
He was by far my biggest influence in comedic storytelling.
As incredible as his art was, no one could tell a funny story--or tell a story funnier--than Will Elder! All those amazing and hilarious background gags and goofy puns and attention to detail made each of his pages a delight. It would take me twice as long to read one of his stories because I'd pour over every panel.
BTW, Groth is dead wrong. Being a "nice guy" has nothing to do with being a success (as evidenced by the success of Kirby, Barks, Hughes, Romita, Lee and others). I believe it may have had more to do with not staying with MAD and focusing on "adult" humor/comedy like his Little Annie Fanny. Most average comic readers just don't appreciate comedy like the general public, which celebrates its comedians. Many MAD artists achieved commercial success but Bill went off with Kurtzman instead.
However, financial success is not the same as genuine or aesthetic success, which Elder achieved in spades. His work will live forever, which is more than many can say for their career.
I thank God I got to meet him at the EC reuinon in San Diego a few years ago...very nice gentleman and still very funny. Thank you, Bill!