Life, 1896-10-08 · page 3 of 18
Life — October 8, 1896 — page 3: what you’re looking at
What you’re looking at
# Analysis of Life Magazine Page (Volume XXVIII, Number 719) This page contains a satirical poem titled "In Washington" accompanied by an illustration labeled "At the Wedding." The cartoon depicts a formal wedding scene where guests appear concerned about the bride's parents looking "too solemn." The poem satirizes a congressman who became "a Member of Congress" and now faces his mother's disapproval of his career choice, with her calling him a "burglar." This appears to be social satire about political corruption—suggesting congressmen "burglarize" public funds or betray their constituents' trust through dishonest dealings. The humor relies on the disconnect between respectable appearances (weddings, congressional office) and the implied moral failings of politicians. It's early 20th-century commentary on governmental ethics and public distrust of elected officials.
📄 Transcribed text from this page (OCR, searchable)
Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.
NUMBER 719 AT THE WEDDING. ‘‘puN'T YOU THINK THE BRIDE'S PARENTS LOOK TOO SOLEMN?” “SNOT AT ALL, THEY'VE KNOWN THE BRIDEGROOM EVER SINCE HE WAS A BOY." IN WASHINGTON. P in the capitol, gold and white, “And what is the calling you've made your choice ?” U Flooded erstwhile with a softened light, He asked of the man with the matchless voice. An old young man, with a voice of fire, “Some time ago,” in a tone of shame, Clasped hands with a friend from his native shire. ‘A Member of Congress I became ; The gap in the journal of Father Time “But lest you would deal a crushing blow, Was filled by the man from the western clime; Don’t let my poor old mother know.’ And under the wing of the smiling dome “Why, what does she take your réle to be, He told of his life and the folks at home. That proud old lady of high degree?” ‘*And what of the talents given you? The orator sadly shook his head, Have you taken away or added to? “She thinks I’m a burglar,” he softly said. comicbooks.com