Life — December 9, 1915 — page 10: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Analysis This page contains two satirical pieces: 1. **"Hopeless"** (top): A brief commentary on the absurdity of selecting Chicago's "politest street-car conductor" and "politest railroad-depot ticket seller" through public voting. The satire suggests these selections are impossible decisions—acknowledging the rarity of politeness in such positions. 2. **"Business is Business"** (middle): A humorous anecdote where a well-dressed stranger applies to be a village burglar, offering professional theft services with guarantees. The mayor rejects him, saying he's already contracted with a burglar's insurance company. 3. **"The Head of the Firm"** (bottom): Character sketches of office types, including descriptions of "The Office Boy," "Head Bookkeeper," "The Stenographer," and "His Wife." The humor targets municipal incompetence, corporate absurdity, and workplace stereotypes typical of early 20th-century American satire.