The grid organizes the storytelling from "summary" of Understanding Comics by Scott McCloud
The grid is the hidden architect of our stories. It guides our eyes as we move from panel to panel, shaping our understanding of time and space. The arrangement of panels on the page can manipulate the pace of the narrative, controlling the flow of information to the reader. When panels are arranged in a regular, uniform grid, the storytelling can feel more structured and controlled. This can create a sense of order and clarity in the narrative, guiding the reader through the story in a way that feels deliberate and intentional. On the other hand, when panels break free from the grid, overlapping or bleeding into each other, the storytelling can feel more dynamic and fluid. This can create a sense of movement and energy in the narrative, pushing the reader to engage more actively with the story as they navigate the unconventional layout. The grid can also be used to create visual rhythm in the storytelling, with repeated patterns of panel size and shape establishing a sense of consistency and coherence throughout the narrative. This can help to unify disparate elements of the story, linking them together in a way that feels harmonious and interconnected.- The grid is a powerful tool for organizing the storytelling, shaping the reader's experience of the narrative in subtle yet significant ways. By understanding how the grid functions and experimenting with different layouts and arrangements, creators can craft stories that are not only visually engaging but also structurally sound. In this way, the grid becomes not just a framework for the story, but an integral part of the storytelling itself.
