Life — December 4, 1913 — page 31: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This image from *Life* magazine (page 971) depicts a snowy urban alleyway scene with two figures standing near building stoops and stairs. The caption reads "THE RIGHT NEIGHBORHOOD," suggesting social commentary about residential segregation or class distinctions. The photograph appears to be satirizing notions of desirable versus undesirable neighborhoods—likely referencing early-to-mid 20th century urban housing discrimination. The snow-covered, cramped alley with modest buildings contrasts with period ideals of "right" neighborhoods, which typically meant wealthy, exclusive areas. Without additional context about the specific publication date, the precise satirical target remains somewhat unclear, though the image likely critiques either class-based housing segregation or racial residential patterns common to that era.