Life, 1915-02-18 · page 11 of 44
Life — February 18, 1915 — page 11: what you’re looking at
What you’re looking at
The illustration titled "A 'Samson et Dalila' Audience" depicts an ornate theatrical gathering, with the caption noting that "gowns must accord with the music" — a satirical comment on opera-goers' pretentiousness. The accompanying dialogue "On Life's Wire" features a conversation between "Life" and "Philippines," personified as characters debating Philippine independence. The Philippine character argues for self-governance, while Life counsels caution, warning that independence brings responsibility. Life suggests the Philippines should remain dependent on American oversight. This reflects early 20th-century American imperialist attitudes, where the U.S. justified colonial control of the Philippines as protective guardianship rather than acknowledging independence movements. The satire critiques both American paternalism and the earnest independence advocates.
📄 Transcribed text from this page (OCR, searchable)
Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.
A “SAMSON ET DALILA” AUDIENCE (To BE EN REGLE THIS SEASON GOWNS MUST ACCORD WITH THE MUSIC) On Life’s Wire LLO, Lire? This is the Philip- pines.” “Glad to hear your voice. How are our Oriental dependencies this morning?” “Pretty fair. But this thing of being dependencies is no fun. You know that yourself. Ask any Daughter of the Revolution you meet if it wasn't @ good thing for you to get away from England. How soon do you think we may become independencies?” “That is problematical, Philippines. There are so many things to be taken into consideration. Reli , for in- stance. If we could only be sure that you held the same opinion as we do about the future life—” “What difference does that make?” “Lots of difference. And there is the matter of the flag. If we could only get the flag away from you without hauling it down. You know the old tradition about hauling down the flag and all that.” “You hauled it down in Mexico.” “Oh, that was different. It hadn't been up there very long. And besides we are not feeling quite so world- powerish as when we acquired you.” “Well, then, why don't you with- draw your troops and your officials and let us alone?” : “Easier said than done, Philippines. Nations form bad habits quite as easily as individuals do, We have the habit now and it is hard to break it.” “Have you any idea what it costs you to govern us?” “Heavens, no! We are afraid to fig- ure it up. We just assume you are a good investment and let it go at that.” “But aren't my rights and feelings to be considered at all?” “You don't understand, Philippines. It is this way. Independence—" “Independence is more blessed to receive than to give.” “Perhaps so. But you can't expect us to worry about your rights as much. as about our own.” “No; but if the truth were known, you would be better off without your Oriental dependencies.” “No doubt of it, Philippines. Per- sonally we have always looked upon sone of our leading mis- “Yes; but you don’t throw your heart and soul into correcting it. “There is so much to be corrected. Philippines, that we haven't enough to go around. But there is hope.” “Thanks for small favors, Lire. We'll try to be patient. Good-bye.” “Good-bye. Here's hoping we can soon say good-bye forever.” comichooks.