Monsters are a departure from 'reality' in a way that allows for a range of fantastic possibilities. I mean this within the world of literature as well as in regards to art. When I sit down to draw, I'm energized by the possibility of creating a monster. That is where I find beauty and pathos.

In this quote, Emil Ferris, a graphic novelist and artist, explores the idea that monsters offer a unique departure from reality that opens up a wide range of creative possibilities. By introducing monsters into literature and art, Ferris suggests that these fantastical creatures allow for freedom of imagination, where the usual constraints of the real world can be pushed aside. Monsters, as creations of the mind, represent opportunities for innovation, exploration, and the expression of ideas that go beyond the ordinary.

Ferris also touches on how the process of creating a monster, particularly when drawing, energizes him as an artist. The act of designing a monster represents an invitation to step into a world where anything is possible, and the creation of such beings provides a sense of excitement and potential. This connection between monsters and the creative process highlights how these figures are not just frightening or strange but are also deeply intertwined with the freedom to express the unimaginable.

Moreover, Ferris finds beauty and pathos in the concept of the monster. The juxtaposition of beauty and emotional depth with these usually grotesque or fearsome figures suggests that there is a humanity within them—perhaps in their vulnerability, their struggles, or their misunderstood nature. Ferris implies that monsters can serve as a metaphor for deeper emotions and experiences, providing a way to explore themes of identity, alienation, and empathy in a way that connects to the human condition.

Ultimately, Ferris’ quote underscores the power of monsters in art and literature as vehicles for imaginative expression. They are not merely fantastical beings; they embody a space where creativity can thrive, and where beauty and complexity can emerge from the most unexpected places. Through monsters, Ferris finds a way to blend the surreal with the emotional, creating a space where the fantastical reveals profound truths.