To me, Green Arrow in the past, what people loved about Oliver Queen pre-New 52 was his relationships with other heroes. Like his friendship with Green Lantern, his animosity with Hawkman, his romance with Black Canary - these are all the things that sort of defined him.

In this quote, Jeff Lemire reflects on the character of Green Arrow, particularly focusing on what made Oliver Queen so relatable and beloved before the New 52 comic book reboot. Lemire suggests that what readers truly appreciated about Green Arrow was not just his personal story or heroic actions, but the relationships he had with other heroes. These connections helped define his character and gave depth to his story.

Lemire highlights several important relationships that shaped Oliver Queen's identity, including his friendship with Green Lantern, his animosity with Hawkman, and his romance with Black Canary. These interactions are integral to understanding Green Arrow as more than just a vigilante; they illustrate the emotional complexity of his character. His friendships and rivalries added layers to his personality, making him a multifaceted hero with real human connections, struggles, and growth.

The mention of the New 52 is significant because this comic book reboot changed many aspects of established characters, including Green Arrow. Lemire is pointing out that the relationships that once defined Oliver Queen’s character were less prominent or altered in the New 52, which may have shifted how fans connected with him. This shift in focus likely diminished the emotional richness that these personal bonds brought to the character.

Ultimately, Lemire’s words underscore the idea that relationships—whether they are friendships, romantic entanglements, or rivalries—play a central role in defining a character’s complexity and appeal. For Oliver Queen, these connections were what made him more relatable and interesting, and they allowed fans to see him as a hero with human vulnerabilities and strengths.