I think 'Twilight' by William Gay is also a great novel. It has a rich narrative that weaves together the stories of different individuals in a way that is both engaging and thought - provoking. The descriptions of the settings and the complex relationships between the characters make it a memorable read.
It depends on the specific comic and its storyline. Some comics might imply or explicitly show it, while others might not address this aspect of his character at all.
A sense of melancholy and the passage of time are often found in his novels. His characters are often dealing with the effects of time on their lives, their dreams that may have been lost over the years, and there is a general feeling of bittersweetness that runs through his stories.
A common theme is the exploration of rural life. His novels often take place in small southern towns and countryside, showing the simplicity and complexity of that kind of life.
The short stories of William Gay are known for their gritty realism. He doesn't shy away from showing the darker side of human nature. His characters are often struggling with poverty, family issues, and personal demons. One can find a lot of themes related to survival and the search for meaning in his works.