So, I've been thinking a lot about how, unlike Superman and Batman, the Flash doesn't have a lot of stand-alone stories in which the Flash's mythology is explored and experimented with. There are some great "runs", arcs, and graphic novels with distinct flavors to them, but there aren't many seminal works one can easily point to and say, "this captures the essence of the Flash". Part of this has to do with the fact that the Flash is a legacy character. But even so, I'm surprised more writers haven't given it a crack. Born to Run is the closest thing I can think of.
I mentioned All-Star Superman for a reason. I could also point to landmark equivalents for Batman (TDKR, The Long Halloween, Year One), but Morrison's approach suited Superman in a way I think it would also suit the Flash. Aside from the fact that both are more hopeful, idealistic characters with bright colors and incredible abilities, I would love to see the Flash fleshed out in that same combination of old and new. In All-Star Superman, Morrison said he was trying to create a synthesis of everything Superman, formulate his core essence and distill it. At the same time, he was showing different sides of Superman and even pushing the boundaries of sides not always explored, such as those of his intelligence and scientific prowess. He was still farmboy Kent, and at the same time totally embraced his Kryptonian heritage, while performing amazing feats and battling larger than life threats.
So, how would you write a similar story for the Flash, be it Barry Allen or Wally West (or both)? What would the overall story be? What mini-stories would you add? What sides of the Flash do you think are under-explored?
I'd like to see the Flash interact more with the speed force and show what it's like to have your perception tied to super speed. I always felt that was an interesting part of the character that isn't explored enough. Although an interesting feature of All-Star is that there isn't much internal monologue at all (from what I remember). The story tells itself, and I'd like that kind of storytelling for a definitive Flash work, as much as I love internal narration.
There are many ways to approach this, but I think it might be cool to have the comic book start out with Barry dying as he did in COIE, but travelling back in time as a lightning bolt. As he does, he relives different moments of his life, and never before told adventures unfold, but from the perspective of a Barry gaining a new understanding of life and the universe within the speed force. One mini story might be Barry temporarily granting super speed to those with similar personalities (aloof, methodical, scientific, morally rigid) around the whole world; Latin America, Asia, Africa, Europe. That small but precious gift allows them to embody his spirit and save the day, while looking towards becoming a better person and an everyday hero.
Another more straightforward version could simply be Wally West trying to right wrongs as best as he can in the world, with an emphasis on just how down to Earth the Flash is. He's more friendly and accessible than other DC heroes, and I'd love to see that fleshed out within the Keystone environment. Not to mention flashbacks of his childhood. That's a must. A classic adventure with the Titans (teen or grown) would also be a worthy chapter.
Hell, why not a graphic novel divided into 3 parts-Jay, Barry, Wally-with a consistent theme or story thread running through them? That would emphasize each character as a distinct person, while reemphasizing a solid and consistent symbolism behind the Flash. Not sure what kind of plots would lend themselves to that format though.
So what do you guys think? Is it possible, or even desirable? How would you approach it?