I'm not commenting on whether it's good characterization (although I do non-ironically enjoy reading QC personally), just that it's a marked departure from the esrly days of the strip when there was no attempt at giving the characters any more characterization than requires for the short-term jokes. Regardless of how good he is at it, the author is certainly being consistent about writing a long-term plot that is isn't just a bunch of gags and about giving the characters meaningful backstories and personalities beyond "likes indie rock."