Cerebus #216

Three overlapping panels arranged like a scattered hand of cards give this 1997 issue of the long-running "Guys" arc a quietly intimate feel — Cerebus in his bar-patron suit peers out from the upper left, a single pink rose dominates the center, and a smiling, curly-haired woman gazes warmly from the lower right. The collage-style composition, rendered by Dave Sim and Gerhard, hints at themes of longing and connection without spelling anything out. It's a deceptively understated cover that rewards a second look.