Let me ask you, and I’m serious now–apart from nostalgia, what difference does this make? Why are you so worked up about the number on the cover?

Comics are pretty much the only serial publications that put such an emphasis on a cover number, and our fans are pretty hardcore about it. And different fans have different opinions on the whole thing.

But in these instances, what is it that bothers you?

UNCANNY AVENGERS is relaunching because, having come through a major crossover, we’ve got a new line-up and a changed mission statement. So it’s the same book, but it’s also a different book. FANTASTIC FOUR, meanwhile, is going back to its classic numbering for nostalgic reasons–which usually makes at least the longer time fans happy.

So tell me, anonymous stranger, what’s got you all hot and bothered about this?