Life — May 18, 1916 — page 1: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# "Northern Lights" - Life Magazine, May 18, 1918 This silhouette illustration depicts a cowboy on horseback gazing at the American flag's vertical stripes illuminated in the night sky, with stars above. The title "Northern Lights" is a pun—literally referencing the aurora borealis, but symbolically suggesting the flag as America's guiding light. Given the 1918 publication date (during World War I), this appears to be patriotic imagery encouraging American resolve or hope during the war effort. The cowboy—a distinctly American figure—contemplates the flag as an inspiring vision, suggesting national unity and ideals worth fighting for. The romantic, silhouetted composition emphasizes emotional connection to American values rather than depicting specific political figures or events.