The book "The Arrival" (Hodder & Stoughton, 2006) by the Australian author Shaun Tan is considered one of the most emblematic graphic novels of recent years. Tan tells us the story of a migrant who leaves his country to get a better life for his family. Without a single word, the artist uses his illustrations (which evoke sepia-coloured photographs) to show us the arrival of a traveller in a strange land, of which he does not know the language, the food or the customs. This whole scenario is presented to us in a fantastic world, with a fictional language, so that the reader can place himself in the same place as our protagonist and not understand what surrounds him. Shaun Tan created a timeless work, inspired by his father, who came to Australia from Malaysia. To make the illustrations he was inspired by real photographs of emigrants, in order to reflect their expressions and experiences in a work that allows us to put ourselves in the shoes of those who arrive in a completely unknown place, only with a suitcase and hope.
Appreciation of the art of "The Arrival":
From the flyleaves, we can observe Tan's thorough work on every face. Each owner of a different story, but they all have one thing in common: they came to another country in search of a better life.
Every detail counts: words are not necessary to understand the pain of farewell. To get away from those you love in the hope of seeing them again soon.
...because the country where you live is full of monsters.
To embark on the journey.
Reaching unknown territory and trying to communicate, without much success...
...and face a language you don't understand...
...strange creatures...
...and food with an unexpected taste.
However, in the place that receives you, you can find a strange and incredible beauty...
...And when you least expect it, it becomes your new home.
About Shaun Tan:
"He began making illustrations for sci-fi stories published in small publishing houses during his adolescence and has since become famous for making picture books that address social, political and historical issues through dreamlike images. His works have been translated into many languages and have delighted readers of all ages.
Shaun has also worked as a stage designer and conceptual artist for animated works, and directed the Oscar-winning short film in which he adapted The Lost Thing. In 2011 he received the prestigious Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award in Sweden in recognition of his work." Source