In the realm of graphic novels, few works have achieved the cult status and critical acclaim of Neil Gaiman’s Preludes and Nocturnes (Sandman, Book 1), originally published in 1989.
This groundbreaking collection introduces readers to the ethereal world of Dream, also known as Morpheus, one of the Endless, a family of anthropomorphic personifications of fundamental forces.
Preludes and Nocturnes sets the stage for a complex and imaginative saga that transcends the boundaries of traditional comics.
An Introduction to the World of Dreams
Preludes and Nocturnes serves as the captivating introduction to the Sandman universe.
The story begins with Dream’s imprisonment by a group of occultists in 1916, who mistakenly capture him while attempting to bind Death, his sister.
This imprisonment has far-reaching consequences, disrupting the balance of the dreaming world and the waking realm.
Over the course of the volume, Dream escapes and embarks on a quest to recover his lost totems of power: a pouch of sand, a helm, and a ruby.
His journey brings him into contact with a diverse cast of characters, from DC Universe mainstays like John Constantine and Doctor Destiny to mythical figures and ordinary humans caught in extraordinary circumstances.
The Structure and Style of Preludes and Nocturnes
Preludes and Nocturnes is comprised of eight individual issues, each contributing to the overarching narrative of Dream’s escape and quest.
While the initial issue feels somewhat distinct from the rest, establishing the premise and setting the dark, brooding tone, the subsequent issues weave together seamlessly, gradually revealing more about Dream’s character and the world he inhabits.
Gaiman’s writing is poetic and evocative, seamlessly blending elements of horror, fantasy, and mythology.
Sam Kieth’s art in the first few issues adds to the gritty and nightmarish atmosphere, while later issues, penciled by Mike Dringenberg and Malcolm Jones III, offer a slightly smoother, more refined aesthetic.
While I enjoyed the various art styles they sometimes felt disjointed which is likely intentional to match the tonal shifts of each issue and Dream’s ongoing journey.
This stylistic variation contributes to the unique and experimental feel of the early days of The Sandman series.
Delving into the Narrative of Preludes and Nocturnes
Preludes and Nocturnes takes readers on a dark and twisted journey through the realms of dreams and nightmares.
Dream’s quest is not just about retrieving his lost objects; it’s about reclaiming his power and understanding the consequences of his imprisonment.
Along the way, he encounters characters who challenge his assumptions and force him to confront his own flaws.
The stories within Preludes and Nocturnes explore themes of power, responsibility, and the nature of reality itself.
The encounter with John Constantine, for example, highlights the connections between the Sandman universe and the wider DC Universe.
The storyline involving Doctor Destiny showcases the destructive potential of dreams when they fall into the wrong hands.
Each encounter contributes to a broader understanding of Dream’s power and the delicate balance he maintains.
Preludes and Nocturnes: A Gateway to the Sandman Universe
One of the strengths of Preludes and Nocturnes is its anthology-like structure.
While the overarching plot of Dream’s quest drives the narrative forward, each issue can be enjoyed as a standalone story.
This allows Gaiman to experiment with different tones and themes, from the visceral horror of “24 Hours” to the surreal and melancholic “The Sound of Her Wings.”
If there’s a weakness to be found within the anthology nature of Preludes and Nocturnes, it’s that it might not entirely capture what The Sandman series grows into with its later entries.
Some stories do stand out from others however.
“24 Hours” is a horrific and intense descent into madness.
“The Sound of Her Wings”, though melancholy, is a much-needed moment of reflection.
Issue six “24 Hours” is frequently cited as the series’ most horrifying installment while the final issue “The Sound of Her Wings” is often described as one of the series’ saddest installments.
These stylistic swings show Gaiman really testing the Sandman’s boundaries in Preludes and Nocturnes.
The Legacy of Preludes and Nocturnes
Preludes and Nocturnes is not merely a graphic novel; it’s a literary experience.
Gaiman’s masterful storytelling and the evocative artwork combine to create a world that is both unsettling and enchanting.
It’s a captivating introduction to the character of Dream and his function within the larger DC Universe.
The collection has had a profound impact on the comic book industry, pushing the boundaries of storytelling in the medium.
It has also influenced countless other works of fiction, from novels to television series.
For those unfamiliar with the world of Sandman, Preludes and Nocturnes is a perfect entry point.
Understanding the themes set forward within the first volume helps readers comprehend all later plot points and character complexities throughout the ten-volume epic saga.
Closing Thoughts on Preludes and Nocturnes
Preludes and Nocturnes is both a dark fantasy thriller, and an engrossing drama.
It’s an impressive feat and widely acknowledged as a classic work in the graphic novel world.
It’s a captivating introduction to one of the most popular Vertigo titles.
Preludes and Nocturnes is a must-read for both fans of graphic novels and those seeking a thought-provoking and unforgettable introduction to the Sandman universe.
The series is a highly recommended read for anyone interested in a fantasy epic rich with lore.
It’s a particularly good find for anyone who prefers a darker fantasy element within their literature choices.
For an interesting look at how Neil Gaiman approached crafting a new and improved Dream for Netflix’s The Sandman, this article discusses some of those considerations: https://www.cbr.com/netflix-sandman-neil-gaiman-explained-dream-changes/.
I can’t say enough positive things about how well written Preludes and Nocturnes is.
It’s a great jumping-off point to understand some of the other titles released within the Vertigo universe at that time, too.
