Captain of not his own destiny

“The Outer Light” is technically a work of “fanfic” – fan-created fiction. That’s primarily a legal term, but for me it has significance way beyond licensing technicalities.

“OL” is my first graphic novel, created in collaboration with writer Andre Duza and illustrator Don Ellis Aguillo, and it’s morphing before our eyes due to fan input. That wasn’t our reason for launching “Outer Light” online before it was completed, but it’s worked in our favor.

Here’s a rundown of questions I’ve heard from fans that will now influence future episodes:

Question: Is Picard really this angsty?

Answer: Mos def. You saw the end of “The Inner Light,” right? He’s sitting there alone playing his flute as the Enterprise glides silently through space. No big trumpet fanfare signaling the end of another thrilling adventure – just quiet solitude and a plaintive tune. So my theory is, he does this a lot, late at night when he’s alone. No one can know, of course – you can’t effectively lead while walking around like an Abilify commercial – so he keeps himself buttoned-up.

Question: Will there be a printed version of “Outer Light” once it’s completed.

Answer:  Depends on costs, because as a work of fanfic we have no plans to charge for it – but hopefully, yes.

Question:  Why aren’t the details more accurate – i.e. the look of the Enterprise or the layout of the bridge?

Answer:  What do I look like, CBS?  We’re not putting ourselves up as the return of TNG.  “Inner Light” was 98% a Picard story that took place off the ship and we’re trying to create that same vibe with “OL.” So we’ve taken a minimalist approach to the Enterprise and its crew.

But for now – enjoy Episode 3.