Life — April 22, 1909 — page 5: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# "The Revolt of the Bone" This satirical poem by Edward S. Martin critiques the emerging women's suffrage and independence movements of the early 20th century. "The Bone" appears to be a metaphor for a woman who has been shaped and controlled by men ("shaped and complete"). The poem describes her "revolt"—her demand for voting rights, workplace equality ("Won't do his share of the work!"), and autonomy ("Power to the drudge from the shirt!"). The illustration shows women in a circle, likely representing this collective uprising. The satire mocks male anxiety about women's liberation, warning men should "be good while he can" because "Woman can go it alone!" The piece captures contemporary male resistance to women's rights activism.