Life, 1912-06-06 · page 20 of 56
Life — June 6, 1912 — page 20: what you’re looking at
What you’re looking at
This page contains two satirical pieces: **"Over the Alps"** mocks prominent wealthy industrialists and public figures (Rockefeller, Depew, Parkhurst, Hearst) by suggesting they should be exiled on an extended tour abroad. Life sardonically celebrates their absence, arguing the country is "quieter" and more peaceful without them. The joke is that Life would gladly keep these powerful men away indefinitely—positioning them as burdensome to American society. **"The Humble Clam"** is gentler satire about conservation efforts. It humorously elevates clams to American citizens deserving "Life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness," while mocking the notion that clams possess humor and philosophical worth. The piece playfully suggests researchers are wasting resources studying clam extinction when clams are merely "the only true American among us"—ironically critiquing both pseudo-scientific investigation and American exceptionalism. Both pieces use absurdist humor to critique their subjects.
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“Over the Alps” of others who ought to be with our guests on their tour. “What's the matter with John D, Rockefeller, Chauncey Depew, Parkhurst and Hearst?” writes an intelligent friend. It should be remembered, however, that this is an en- tirely new idea, and we don't expect to be able to take The Humble Clam Ar honor to August Zoller, of Providence Frank Homan, of Connecticut. These gentlemen are investigating the habits of the clam. They have secured a five hundred acre pond at Block Island and propose to find out what really is the matter with the clam. The clam has been slowly going away from us, and unless something is done this precious bivalve, along with the buffalo, may soon become extinct. Some time ago Professor Sulley, the philosopher, traced the origin of the smile to the clam. For a long period it has been definitely known that clams possess a sense of humor. They have contributed much to the philosophy of life and should be guarded for the uses of posterity. Every clam is entitled to “Life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.” He is probably the only true Ameri can among us. Let us preserve his identity. * Russia” with us on a trip like this every one who ought to go. When we have demonstrated how much better off—and quieter—the country is without Hitchcock, Carnegie, Flex- ner and Baer, it will then be time to consider others. All are now agreed, however, that the Colonel is less. He can do about as he pleases and nobody cares. In the meantime we realize, of course, everything de- pends upon how long we can keep these gentlemen away. For one week now the country has rested in a manner that makes us all see what a necessity it is to have a little peace If you could keep them away indefinitely,” writes a friend, “a new state will arise and mankind will have a new deal, Can you do it?” This is the great question before us, Our resources are greater than people have any idea of. Brothers, have no fear. Our mission is to think first of our country, second of our readers, third of our advertisers and lastly of ourselves. We shall keep them far away, and as long as possible. BE /| BEAUTIFUL! || REMOVE THAT Fr - DOUBLE, CHIN! | “LL MAVE TO GO SEE SKINNER. THAT'S ALL THERE ro aT" comicbooks.com