Life — February 19, 1903 — page 12: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Analysis This cartoon depicts two men in formal attire separated by a partition or door. The man on the left appears distressed or anxious, while the man on the right stands calmly. The caption at bottom reads "FOLLOW YOUR CARD UNTIL YOU GET WHAT" (text cut off). This appears to be a satirical commentary on **bureaucratic procedures or waiting room protocol** — possibly mocking the frustration of dealing with official processes where one must follow numbered tickets or cards to reach assistance. The partition suggests separate spaces or compartments, common in banks, government offices, or formal institutions of the era. The anxious expression on the left figure contrasts with the composed demeanor of the right, suggesting the cartoon critiques either the emotional toll of bureaucracy or the indifference of officials. Without the complete caption, the specific target remains partially unclear.