Life — May 20, 1915 — page 23: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This black and white photograph shows a rooster in profile, positioned prominently against a dark background. The bird's white plumage contrasts sharply with the shadowy setting. The caption "The Optimist" appears to be satirical commentary using the rooster as a symbolic figure. Roosters traditionally crow at dawn, suggesting hope and new beginnings. The dark, somewhat ominous background may suggest that despite circumstances (unclear from this image alone), the rooster—representing "the optimist"—remains upright and vocal, maintaining its characteristic optimistic posture and call. The satire likely comments on maintaining hope or positive outlook during difficult times, though the specific historical context requiring this message is not evident from the image alone.