Life, 1905-02-02 · page 11 of 40
Life — February 2, 1905 — page 11: what you’re looking at
What you’re looking at
This page satirizes changing courtship and marriage customs. The heading "IN THE GOOD OLD TIMES" contrasts past with present practices. The poem (attributed "E. S. M.") nostalgically claims that people once "married then for good" and "took due previous thought," unable to back out once committed. The modern counterpoint mocks contemporary gallants who casually say: "I like you well / Let's make no lasting vow, / But try me for a spell"—suggesting temporary, non-binding romantic arrangements. The illustration shows a couple in a pastoral setting, depicting idealized "old times" romance. The satire criticizes modern men's reluctance to commit to permanent marriage, framing contemporary courtship as superficial and temporary compared to earlier generations' supposedly more serious intentions.
📄 Transcribed text from this page (OCR, searchable)
Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.
425 IN THE GOOD OLD TIMES. € OLKS married then for good. When gallants offer now. And took due previous thought They say: “I like you well Id Let’s make no lasting Nor ever guessed 1! y me for a spell!” ELS. M. Back out they » comicbooks.com