Life — February 11, 1909 — page 7: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Page Analysis: "Wisdom That Smiles" This page from *Life* magazine features two cartoons flanking a portrait, under the heading "Wisdom That Smiles." **Left cartoon ("The Comic"):** Shows a slapstick scene of physical comedy—figures in exaggerated motion, suggesting pratfalls or absurd mishaps. **Center:** A formal portrait of a serious-faced man in formal dress. **Right cartoon ("Tragedy"):** A dark, moody landscape scene. The article argues that a sense of humor is essential to leadership and wisdom. It specifically references **Lincoln**, praising his ability to balance serious duties with humor—noting that without his comedic sensibility, he wouldn't have become president. The piece suggests that humor provides necessary psychological relief and demonstrates intellectual sophistication, contrasting the "droll and ludicrous" with grave responsibility as marks of wisdom rather than unsuitability for high office.