Panel 1: So I've started counting all the exclamation points that the Jackelrod Sphere has employed since January 1. In doing so, I've noticed something that I hadn't paid attention to before. Namely, the JS use three forms of punctuation to show the end of a sentence: an exclamation point, a question mark, ellipses. So far, I haven't seen a single free-standing period. Today's panel one is no exception. He's clearly addressing two different characters, Sassy and Tom Wopat (who, I might add, appears to be preparing himself for some additional tongue work by Sassy). Rather than have two free standing sentences, the JS uses the ellipses to break them up. I'm not sure why, as the intent would be just as clear with periods.
Panel 2: Looks like a hyenapig to me, Stringy. Better throw it back before it gives you some deadly hyena flu-swine flu hybrid.
Panel 3: The silent Elf lurks in the forest, waiting for the opportunity to launch himself like a deranged gnat, at the ankles of the dog-napping villains.
Just like in "Judge Parker", there are never any periods in "Mark Trail". Never. Never ever ever. I didn't notice until someone pointed it out to me, but of course, as soon as they did, it drove me bananas. Kind of like when someone told me that root beer tastes like toothpaste.
ReplyDeleteAs an aside, many comics don't use periods. The exact reason why I'm not clear on, but it's definitely not tied to just JP or MT.
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