Life — February 19, 1891 — page 3: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# "Good by Tom, So Long" - A Lenten Satire This 1891 Life magazine cover depicts a couple exchanging what appears to be a farewell handshake or kiss, captioned "LENT." The illustration satirizes the social practice of Lenten sacrifice during the Catholic season preceding Easter. The cartoon likely mocks the superficial nature of Lenten observance—particularly among the wealthy or fashionable classes—suggesting that giving up pleasures (represented by the couple's separation) was merely a temporary, performative gesture. The man's exaggerated bow and formal dress contrast with the woman's elegant gown, emphasizing the social theatricality of the ritual. The title implies casual indifference to the separation, suggesting the satirist viewed Lenten piety as insincere social convention rather than genuine spiritual commitment.