A Man Among Ye #2: You Can’t Hang our Freedom

A Man Among Ye continues in its second issue with a dramatic dive into the relationship between Anne and Mary and this particularly difficult life they have chosen. It doesn’t really pack a lot of action, but the character development will easily have you coming back for more in this high seas adventure.

This issue really explores the impacts of such a lifestyle as a woman, particularly through the lens of Mary Read who is much more youthful and naive to the ways of the world. Anne Bonny brings a stark contrast to this worldview and helps to create an enjoyable dynamic between the two that ultimately carries this issue. The conflict with Biff that seems to be spiraling just a bit out of control adds some intrigue to the issue but it truly is Anne and Bonny that will keep you hooked.

The artwork is nothing short of classic pirate awesomeness. There is plenty of bickering and squabbles mixed with drinking that may feel mundane but is executed with really exciting precision. The expressions from all of the characters really steal the spotlight in A Man Among Ye #2, making every panel a treat to look at. There may not be much sword slinging and pistol firing action, but it captures the pirate aesthetic remarkably well.

A Man Among Ye continues to surprise with the second issue by focusing on the emotional drama that comes from choosing such a life in these hard times. There is a gritty realness to the story despite being such an adventurous look into the life of a pirate. I understand the importance of establishing heartfelt motives especially for characters like this, so I do believe the slower pace is to the benefit of the story, making us care more about these characters. However, I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t hoping for more intense pirate action like we saw in the first issue.

The ending cliffhanger shows this story is still absolutely full of surprises and will be uniquely hard to predict. For fans of pirates and badass women in comics, A Man Among Ye is already proving to be among the highest of recommendations. Hopefully it can use the dramatic developments in this issue as a catalyst for a bit more exhilarating storytelling in the coming issues.