Maus: A Survivor's Tale Art and Culture Quotes

How we cite our quotes: (Part.Chapter.Page Number). Page numbers refer to The Complete Maus.

Quote #1

“A new tape recorder…Writing things down is just too hard.” (I.4.75)

Art’s use of a tape recorder (and inclusion of photographs) brings up the question of whether there are more accurate ways to represent the reality of the Holocaust. How can a comic compete with a tape recorder or a camera?

Quote #2

“One reason I became an artist was that he thought it was impractical – just a waste of time…it was an area where I wouldn’t have to compete with him.” (I.5.99)

Ironically, it is his father’s story that inspires one of his most successful and critically acclaimed books.

Quote #3

“It appeared in an obscure underground comic book. I never thought Vladek would see it.” (I.5.101)

Up to this point, Art has created art that he knows his father will never read; comics are a way for him to gain some independence from his father.