Life — September 10, 1908 — page 3: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# "Critical" and "The Frogs" - Life Magazine Satire **"Critical" section:** This satirizes a domestic dispute, likely addressing whether a man should force his wife to stay in an unhappy marriage. The text argues against coercion, suggesting that if a wife loves another man, the husband cannot retain her "by force with South Dakota only five days off"—a reference to South Dakota's notably quick divorce laws, which were notorious in this era as a destination for people seeking easy divorces. **"The Frogs":** This appears to be a political fable mocking stock market speculation and political decision-making. It references "King Stork" sending down "advanced notions" to make frogs wealthy through risky ventures. The satire criticizes how politicians and businessmen treat financial markets recklessly, comparing them to foolish creatures pursuing unsound schemes. The bottom cartoon jokes about excessive spending at social events.