Demons of the Midwest #1 and #2

These zines by Sharon Gissy are autobiographical comix about divorce, depression, time in the psych ward, mania, more depression, and relationships.

I like both issues, but I think I liked the first one best.  I could relate to the topic of divorce and how painful it can be because I was divorced several years ago and remember it all too well.  Sharon’s feelings mirror my own, though the details are different–she gets it just right.

Also, mental health zines are my thing–I was originally diagnosed with bipolar disorder about ten years ago and my diagnosis was later changed to schizoaffective disorder, bipolar type.

Something I like about the first issue is the looseness.  It jumps around a little.  There’s stuff about the divorce, then all of a sudden we’re in the hospital, then we’re out of the hospital again.  Sharon doesn’t over-explain.  I appreciate the way I felt slightly off-kilter.

I found the second issue pretty triggering.  It made me think back on my first and only full-blown manic episode in all of its cringeworthy destructiveness.  As I read about Sharon’s mania, I felt manic.  Then as I read about Sharon’s depressive crash, I felt depressed too.

I don’t think this is a problem with the zine–it’s a problem with me.  But if you’re prone to over-empathizing like I am, you might want to be careful while reading issue two.

But it’s worth it.  These two zines are accurate, complex, worthwhile, and mostly enjoyable to read.  I liked them.

On the back, Sharon thanks Lynda Barry, a famous comix maker who I love.  I can see the influence.

I feel inspired by these zines like maybe I could make comix too.  It’s a good feeling.