After a set of unfortunate delays, KC has just concluded his series of columns on the history of comic storytelling with its last installment, covering the 80s and 90s, the Modern/Dark Age of comics.

Find out why darkness invaded both the comic pages and the industry itself, with the rise of the speculator. Remember the ridiculous cover enhancements (including die-cuts and plastic jewels). Recall a brief history of Image Comics and the trends of “decompressed” widescreen storytelling and Checklist Death. It’s all in this flashback and analysis of where we go next.