the lay of the lacrymer

For my friend Todd, one of lobsters’ natural predators…

I should note that this panel is also inspired by a book my husband (and Todd) read, about what dicks certain types of lobsters are. I do eat meat, though not a lot, but I really enjoy crustaceans, and generally feel bad about eating them, except for these rude lobsters (not that I eat a lot of them, mind you, but every once in awhile…). I think they were Atlantic lobsters, but will try to find the book reference.

Also, it takes a really long time to draw lobsters. I think I spent 8 hours drawing and inking these lobsters, over several days. I couldn’t believe how long it took, though it seems like I should have known, considering that I have a general idea of how many legs they have. My husband reminded me, “Nature is very good at repetition.” Indeed, she is. I find lobsters quite beautiful, but man, so many bits! I realized, while drawing these, that artichokes are kind of the lobsters of the vegetable world–lots of bits that are good for dipping in fat.

I recently finished the book “Stern Men”, which is about lobster fishermen, and is very enjoyable.