Suspense is very important. Even though this is humor and they're short stories, that theory of building suspense is still there.

In this quote, Sergio Aragones, a renowned cartoonist, discusses the role of suspense in his work, specifically in his humor and short stories. Despite the fact that his stories are comedic in nature, Aragones emphasizes that the element of suspense is still crucial. Suspense, traditionally associated with thrillers and dramas, plays a significant role in engaging the audience, even in humor, by keeping them intrigued and eager to see how a situation will unfold.

Aragones suggests that building suspense is not limited to serious or dramatic genres but is a valuable tool in comedic storytelling as well. The tension created by suspense adds an element of surprise, leading to a payoff—in this case, through humor. This could mean setting up expectations in the story and then delivering an unexpected punchline, keeping the audience engaged and entertained.

The concept of suspense in humor is a testament to the universality of storytelling techniques. It shows that the structure of a story—whether it’s meant to entertain, inform, or provoke thought—can share common principles, like timing and tension, regardless of the genre. Aragones’ quote reveals how storytelling techniques like suspense transcend different types of narratives, enhancing the audience's emotional experience.

Ultimately, Sergio Aragones' quote underscores the significance of suspense in crafting compelling stories, even in humorous contexts. It highlights that, regardless of genre, engagement and anticipation are key elements that keep the audience invested in the narrative, whether the outcome is a laugh or a twist.