This latest work by Andrew Vachss is a futuristic tale of
repression, deceit, corruption, control, rebellion … and, ultimately, hope and
survival.
Underground has been built by the Rulers to escape the Terror.
Whatever the Terror is – or was – is never made quite clear to the citizens of
Underground. They need only to believe and trust that the Rulers have their
safety and well-being at heart. Strict adherence to the ever-growing,
ever-evolving, often harsh "Rules" under which people must live are
necessary --- even at the cost of their individual liberties --- in order to
survive the Terror. Beyond the protection within Underground's charted tunnels,
no one can survive.
A large part of the Rulers' power over Underground comes
from control of all news media and education. What is thus imparted becomes the
accepted truth. It is only with the rise of the "Book Boys", who
begin spray-painting the walls of the tunnels with graffiti done in a
specialized blue ink that the real truths are told to citizens
who are willing to open their eyes and pay attention. From these words, these
truths, a path out from under the thumbs of the Rulers may be found …
As usual with a Vachss book, there are many layers and
nuances to this story. Different readers will take away different things; and
re-readings may reveal previously unrealized points. In UNDERGROUND, the many
parallels to today --- the biased news media, government over-regulation (my
take, my opinion), the infringements into our personal freedoms for the sake of
our safety and overall good, etc. --- are unmistakable and can be taken as a
warning of what might be just around the corner if we aren't careful. The abuse
of our young and vulnerable (the theme Vachss always incorporates – "I
have but one song to sing" is his often stated goal) is here, too, and is
the hinge upon which so much else pivots.
UNDERGROUND is available in a beautifully produced,
hardbound graphic novel from Dark Horse Books. The story is from an original
screenplay by Andrew Vachss. Scripting is done by Mike Richardson and Chet
Williamson. Internal artwork is from Dominic Reardon and Keith Champagne, with
a striking front cover by Sean Phillips.
And an afterward ("Leaving the Underground") by
the always insightful Zak Mucha provides a fine analysis of the work and an
overview of what Mucha calls Vachss's "unrelenting message": Crimes
against children are the greatest danger our society faces.
A powerful, important work - not to be missed.
Highly recommended.
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