"I thought I had a great opportunity when I started doing my comic book in 1972. I thought there was so much territory to work in"

Harvey Pekar's quote shows a minute of optimism and ambition at the beginning of his career in the comics market, which was a blossoming field in 1972. This duration was an interesting time for comic creators, as it was a time when the medium was starting to be appreciated not just as entertainment for children, but as a sophisticated kind of storytelling that could explore a large selection of themes and ideas.

Pekar's reference of a "excellent opportunity" suggests he saw the comics as a powerful vehicle for sharing stories that were individual, distinct, and potentially groundbreaking. At the time, mainstream comics were dominated by superhero stories, however there was growing interest in alternative comics that handled more diverse topics, including slice-of-life tales, autobiographical stories, and social commentary. Pekar most likely recognized this shift as an opportunity to carve out his specific niche.

His use of the expression "so much territory to operate in" indicate the vast potential he saw in the medium for imagination and exploration. It reflects his belief that comics could transcend traditional boundaries and address complex human experiences and societal issues. Pekar's work, notably "American Splendor", exemplifies this vision by mixing autobiographical material with everyday observations, providing an honest view of life that was hardly ever portrayed in comics at the time.

The quote catches Pekar's enthusiasm and foresight at a turning point in the history of comics, showing his understanding that comics might be an abundant tapestry for storytelling. His sentiment highlights not just an excitement for personal artistic expression however likewise an understanding of the changing landscape of comics. Pekar's success and impact can be traced back to this early realization of the medium's extensive capacity, which he sought to harness throughout his profession.