" Flash is about freedom; Flash is about expression. Flash is about just the joy of exuberant running and of freedom, and the moment you weight him down with too much Batman-like baggage… that’s not the Flash anymore. "
- Mark Waid

The quote encapsulates the essence of what it means to embody the character Flash. It emphasizes that Flash's identity revolves around freedom, creativity, and a sense of joyous movement—running with enthusiasm and unrestrained energy. The speaker warns against overloading Flash’s persona with heavy-handed elements typically associated with Batman, such as dark themes or excessive seriousness.

On a deeper level, this quote reflects on the balance between maintaining character integrity while allowing for creative expression within storytelling. It suggests that characters like Flash should retain their core essence and spirit, avoiding unnecessary constraints that could hinder their originality and vitality. This perspective highlights the importance of preserving the unique qualities that define beloved comic book heroes, ensuring they remain relatable and engaging to a broad audience.

The quote is attributed to Mark Waid, an acclaimed writer in the comics industry with extensive experience. Known for his work on various superhero titles, including Flash, Waid has a reputation for bringing fresh perspectives and maintaining character authenticity while exploring new narrative directions. His insights into characters like Flash offer valuable guidance on how to sustain their appeal and relevance over time.