Life — January 16, 1913 — page 10: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Analysis of Life Magazine Page 154 **"Wanted: A Story"** - A critique of H.G. Wells as a novelist. The author argues Wells divides modern writers into two classes: the "Robert W. Chambers class" (sensual) and the "H.G. Wells class" (focused on "modern problems"). The complaint is that Wells's characters don't act independently—they can't solve problems like eating or passing time without authorial intervention. The satire mocks Wells for inserting his sociological opinions into fiction rather than letting characters drive the narrative. **Secondary cartoons** illustrate everyday subjects: "A Conundrum" about railroads, "Music Lovers," and "Bonded Debts" discussing state finances. The "Poor Old Grocer" cartoon shows domestic life complaints. The page exemplifies *Life's* role as a literary and social commentary magazine, mixing book criticism with broader cultural observation.