Life — October 27, 1904 — page 7: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Analysis of Life Magazine Page 401 This page contains two separate pieces of satirical content: **"Essentials"** (left column) argues that a university football squad is unnecessary for liberal education. The cartoonist satirizes the belief that football is essential to campus life, suggesting instead that a faculty and proper academics serve that purpose better. **"Absent Treatment and an Auto"** (main story) depicts a humorous exchange between characters named Witherby and Bitter about Witherby's new automobile. The joke centers on "absent treatment" — likely a reference to Christian Science healing practices (mentioned in the dialogue). Witherby claims that by notifying his Christian Scientist of car trips, he receives "absent treatment" that prevents mechanical troubles. The satire mocks both automotive unreliability of the era and New Thought religious practices. The accompanying illustrations show a car headlight and period-dressed figures.