Life — September 14, 1905 — page 8: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# "To Thine Own Self" This page satirizes excessive social reserve and emotional restraint. The story shows "Buddway" (a fictional character) being advised by his wife that he's "too reserved" and should be warmer to others, citing the popular Mr. Caperton as an example of friendliness. The cartoons illustrate the contrast: one shows Buddway's stiff, uncomfortable demeanor; another depicts two figures playing chess, captioned "Voice of Caperton (from the other room): WHO'S WINNING? HE: I THINK I AM." The satire mocks how some men maintain rigid emotional distance even in casual social situations, suggesting that genuine warmth—even performative politeness—would serve them better socially. It's a gentle critique of emotional guardedness as a character flaw.