The Last Delivery is an upcoming graphic novel from Iron Circus Comics created by Evan Dahm, a creator who has been hailed as one of the pre-eminent fantasy cartoonists of our time. His story is a tale of intrigue and peril which plunges readers into a labyrinthine mansion where danger lurks behind every corner and every character bears a barrier to our main protagonist.
The narrative unfurls around an enigmatic parcel delivery boy, who is almost tortoise-like in nature. His parcel is like a shell, it is a part of him. And although his mission seems mundane as he is simply to deliver this parcel to “The Resident”, the chaotic setting leads to a nightmarish odyssey which complicates the errand.
From the very start of the graphic novel, Dahm’s narrative prowess shines through. It is clear that our delivery boy has already been on a solitary journey of great length to reach his parcel’s delivery address but the textless panels leave the details of this journey to the imagination of the reader. Before he even steps foot in the mansion, we are sympathetic to our protagonist’s mission as it is of obvious importance to him. He is wholeheartedly committed to his job. The mystery shrouding the contents of the parcel does well to add layers of intrigue as readers ponder its significance.
As we enter the mansion, we meet partygoers and other residents who immediately serve as adversaries. Every character who our delivery boy meets is unkind, unhelpful, and violent. They impede his progress at every turn and although the mission starts to feel hopeless, he never gives up which is how, as a reader, we start to fall in love with his character. Admitted to this sea of hostility, an exotic dancer named ‘Spatulette’ emerges as a beacon of compassion. She offers her aid and displays some much-needed compassion. With her help, we start to wonder if the protagonist will find success in delivering the parcel.
Throughout The Last Delivery, the language used is reminiscent of Shakespearean prose which lends an air of timelessness to the narrative. Meanwhile, the meticulously crafted colour palette immerses readers in this world of dark fantasy. It is worth casting your eyes over each page a few times over as so much of the story is shared exclusively through Dahm’s signature inky brushwork.
Overall, The Last Delivery, stands as an unmissable addition to the pantheon of adult fantasy literature, beckoning readers to embark on a journey unlike any other. The story is brimming with metaphorical depth, exploring themes of labour and power dynamics and highlights the risks involved in pursuing one’s purpose. This graphic novel is sure to leave an indelible mark that leaves readers clamouring for more of Dahm’s work.
Evan Dahm (W/A) • Iron Circus Comics
Review by Ellie Egleton
