Here’s two sketches from last night’s brainstorming session. I was thinking of displaying  most New Yorkers, from the protagonist’s perspective, as shrouded in shadow. Conversely, the little connections he makes, like helping a tourist, are as clear as day.

I kinda like the idea, but I fear that the dark vs. light thing will seem to imply that the character is morose. What I’m really trying to express is turning inward vs. turning outward. It’s possible to be happy but inward-gazing. I just need to find a way to visualize the difference between shutting people out and letting people in.