Absolute Green Lantern #13: The Psychedelic Saga of Rac Shade
The Absolute Green Lantern series is a unique addition to DC's new Absolute Universe line, reimagining the concept of lantern corps powers as tied to levels of enlightenment rather than emotions. In Absolute Green Lantern #13, written by Al Ewing and illustrated by Eleonora Carlini, the story unfolds on the planet Rann, which is under the control of the Blackstars, a group opposed to the OAns who created the Green Lantern. The Overseer of the Blackstars, Rac Shade, uses a weapon called the M-Vest to interrogate a Rannian scientist working on forbidden technologies.
Shade the Changing Man, created by Steve Ditko in 1977, is a psychedelic superhero who underwent various transformations in his publication history. Originally from the planet Meta in another dimension, Shade possessed the M-Vest, which generated a protective forcefield and distorted his appearance. After a short-lived solo series and a brief stint with the Suicide Squad, Shade's character was revamped in 1990, moving to Vertigo Comics as an alien poet with a Madness-Vest capable of warping reality.
The Absolute Green Lantern version of Rac Shade combines elements from both previous iterations, referencing his poetic nature while using the M-Vest to create illusions of fear. This ability aids the Blackstars in identifying potential threats against them. Absolute Green Lantern #13 is now available for purchase at comic shops, offering a fresh take on the character and his role in the series.
In conclusion, Absolute Green Lantern #13 introduces a twisted variant of Shade the Changing Man as a villain in the Absolute Green Lantern series, blending elements from his original and revamped characterizations. The story unfolds on the planet Rann under the control of the Blackstars, setting the stage for a unique and psychedelic narrative within the Absolute Universe line.