In Harlequin's Song, the images begin as photographs rather than drawings, then are edited to a unique texture familiar to lifelong readers of comics, graphic novels and manga. It is a synthesis on all levels, combining the visual flow and narrative feel of a comic with real people and places in New York City, and a post-catastrophic view of the world based on real events. Even the characters themselves are (for the most part) based on the real people playing them. Harlequin's Song is fantasy overlaid on reality to capture the best of both worlds.

In addition to the stylized imagery, Harlequin's Song also contains more text narration than the average comic. As will become clearer as the story progresses, the book is actually a diary of sorts and chronicles the efforts of the secret leader of the Open as he attempts to save the world, starting with the city he loves.

Using photograph-based images allows the genuine reactions of and interactions between the characters to enhance the realism of the story. Though the characters were designed by the author, they are brought to life fully by the energy, emotion and ideas of the actors depicting them.