Redcoat’s first story arc comes to a close this week in a sorrowful way. The first issue came out swinging with great action sequences and a pace that kept you on the edge of your seat. Now it’s time to say goodbye to an old friend, something an immortal must do many times. Redcoat #7 is about saying goodbye and embarking on what comes next.
This issue serves as an epilogue to the first story arc, and it is very transitional as Simon Pure moves on from his first epic journey. The story opens with Simon seemingly depressed in bed, with multiple used plates on the floor amongst many empty bottles of wine. On the second page, we see a ceiling fan that seems way too modern, given that much of this story takes place in 1892. Gearing up in his normal garb, we soon learn via the cars and clothing that we’re in the 1950s!
The central focus of this issue is Simon saying goodbye to Albert Einstein. He’s on his deathbed, and Simon is not taking it well. Given that he was just a child the last time we saw him and the adventure they went on, it’s easy to see these two bonded closely. Now it’s time for Simon to say goodbye to another close friend.
Does that ceiling fan look like it’s from the 1800s?
Credit: Image
This issue acts as a transition away from who Simon was with Albert and onto something more. Artist Bryan Hitch does a good job of capturing Simon’s solemn nature and seriousness. He’s losing something as Albert comes closer to the end when he had nothing to lose or care about prior. By issue’s end, it’s unclear where Simon goes from here, but it’s hard not to deny he’s a changed man after seven issues.
There’s a double-edged sword at work in this issue. On the one side, it’s compelling to see a time jump and not know how Simon will live in a modern world much closer to ours. On the other hand, writers Geoff Johns and Hitch don’t give us much information regarding what Simon is doing now or where he’s going. Albert does give him a compelling truth about mortality, but if you’re looking for more on where we go from here, you’ll need to read the next issue out in December.
That said, if Simon takes to heart what Albert says about becoming your best self after a well-lived life, Simon has something to aim for as an imperfect man.
Redcoat #7 is a quieter chapter as Simon says goodbye to his good friend Albert Einstein. In this goodbye, the creators seem to suggest Simon will have a new lease on life, and this first story arc is closed.
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