The Walking Dead #155 – “The Tip of the Spear”
Genre
Post-apocalyptic Horror, Survival Drama, Psychological Thriller
Main Characters
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Negan – The unpredictable former leader of the Saviors, now scheming his way into a new position of power.
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Alpha – The ruthless leader of the Whisperers, known for her cold, calculated demeanor and radical ideology.
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Rick Grimes – Though not central to this issue, Rick’s leadership still casts a looming influence over the communities.
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Dwight – A conflicted follower navigating loyalties and power struggles.
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Beta – Alpha’s fiercely loyal second-in-command, a towering enforcer and symbol of brute strength.
Writer
Robert Kirkman – Co-creator of The Walking Dead series, known for his masterful pacing, character depth, and dark world-building.
Artist
Charlie Adlard – Long-time artist of the series, Adlard’s gritty and expressive black-and-white artwork captures the bleak, emotional intensity of each scene.
Editor Details
Sean Mackiewicz – Series editor, guiding the tone and cohesion of the narrative while preserving Kirkman’s storytelling vision.
Publisher and Brand
Image Comics / Skybound Entertainment – Independent publisher celebrated for creator-owned titles; The Walking Dead is one of its flagship series under the Skybound imprint.
Release Year
2016
Brief Plot Summary
In The Walking Dead #155, titled “The Tip of the Spear,” the narrative sharpens as Negan attempts to infiltrate the Whisperers, bringing his own brand of chaos into an already volatile group. His calculated manipulation of Alpha and open disdain for Beta create palpable tension. Meanwhile, back in the communities, Dwight continues to grapple with leadership pressures and his own moral compass. As Rick’s influence indirectly looms, key characters begin to position themselves for what could become an all-out war. This issue is a simmering build-up of psychological warfare, trust, and betrayal.
Notable Arcs or Storylines
This issue falls within the “Whispers Into Screams” storyline, a critical phase leading into the larger Whisperer War arc. It explores Negan’s evolving role after his fall from power and the increasing instability within the Whisperer camp—laying the foundation for one of the series' most brutal conflicts.
Fan Theories or Interpretations
Many fans theorize that Negan’s approach toward Alpha is a façade masking a deeper plan—possibly a betrayal or a strategic play to dismantle the Whisperers from within. Some interpretations view Negan as a dark mirror to Rick, using charisma and manipulation in place of unity and trust. Others see Alpha’s seemingly stoic acceptance of Negan’s antics as a calculated delay before a lethal response.
Review Summary
The Walking Dead #155 is a masterclass in narrative tension. Kirkman’s script masterfully balances shifting alliances and character dynamics, while Adlard’s art continues to deliver with raw, emotional precision. The character of Negan steals the spotlight, bringing a chaotic energy that keeps readers on edge. The story’s slow-burn intensity, combined with moments of sharp dialogue and uneasy alliances, makes this issue a standout in the lead-up to major events. It’s a haunting, strategic chapter that keeps fans speculating—and hungry for more.
Comic Resource / Read Online (External Source)
