How do standalone graphic novels differ from serialized ones?

Well, in terms of art, nonwestern graphic novels can be very different. In many African graphic novels, the art is inspired by local art forms like tribal masks and sculptures. The colors used may be more earthy and represent the natural environment. Meanwhile, western graphic novels tend to have a more commercialized look in some cases. Also, the cultural values depicted in nonwestern graphic novels are often distinct. For example, in Middle Eastern graphic novels, there may be a strong emphasis on religious and moral values, which may be presented in a different way compared to how western graphic novels handle similar themes.

Graphic novels are usually longer and more complex. Comics often come out in serialized installments.

Adult comic books are aimed at a more mature audience, so they can explore darker aspects of human nature. Take 'Maus' for example, it deals with the horrors of the Holocaust in a very raw way. In children's comics, such heavy and disturbing topics are avoided. Moreover, adult graphic novels may have more complex narrative structures, while children's comics usually have a more straightforward plot to keep it easy for kids to follow.

Graphic novels stand out because of their visual aspect. They show rather than just tell. Traditional novels, on the other hand, leave it all up to your imagination through words. Plus, the audience for each can vary based on preferences for visual or textual storytelling.

Graphic novels have more visual elements like illustrations and panels. Traditional novels rely mainly on text to tell the story.

Conservative graphic novels often focus more on traditional values. For example, they might place a stronger emphasis on family, patriotism, and moral absolutes compared to other graphic novels that may be more focused on subverting norms or exploring edgier themes. In conservative graphic novels, the characters may be more likely to uphold the status quo or work towards its restoration if it has been disrupted.

Classics that are graphic novels often have a more timeless quality. For example, 'The Sandman' series has a complex mythology and deep characters that have made it a classic. Unlike some more trendy graphic novels, it has endured over time. Its themes are universal, such as dreams, power, and identity, which set it apart.

Survival graphic novels focus more on the struggle to stay alive. For example, in regular graphic novels, the plot might revolve around a hero's quest for power or love. But in survival ones like 'The Hunger' (not to be confused with 'The Hunger Games'), the characters are constantly dealing with threats like starvation, extreme weather, and dangerous predators. They are about the basic instinct of survival rather than other motives.

Lovecraftian graphic novels are distinct in their themes. They often center around cosmic horror, the insignificance of humanity in the face of vast and unknowable entities. In contrast, other graphic novels might focus on superheroes or more relatable human dramas.

The difference lies in their themes and the depth of exploration. Metaphysical graphic novels go beyond the surface and dig into the fundamental questions of life, the universe, and everything. They may use fantastical elements not just for entertainment but as a means to explore these big questions. Regular graphic novels, on the other hand, can be more about entertainment, telling a story in a more accessible way. For example, a metaphysical graphic novel could be exploring the idea of multiple dimensions and how they interact with our perception of reality, while a regular graphic novel might be about a high - school student's daily life with some comical or dramatic elements.