Life, 1916-08-31 · page 31 of 34
Life — August 31, 1916 — page 31: what you’re looking at
What you’re looking at
This is a **magazine advertisement** rather than a political cartoon. The page advertises *All-Story Weekly*, a pulp fiction magazine published by Frank Munsey's company. The comic illustration shows an exaggerated, energetic man in mid-leap with an expression of alarm or excitement, captioned "Great Scott!" The joke is straightforward: he's just *remembered* he hasn't read the latest issue of this popular magazine—hence his dramatic, embarrassed reaction. The ad then lists upcoming stories in the September 2nd issue, including tales about Empress Tzu Hsi (the late Chinese Empress), a railroad drama, and stories about love and the supernatural. The appeal is to readers who don't want to "miss" these entertaining tales. This reflects early 20th-century pulp magazine culture, when serialized fiction was mass entertainment. The tone is lighthearted, using relatable anxiety (forgetting to buy something you enjoy) as a marketing hook. No political satire is intended—it's purely commercial.
📄 Transcribed text from this page (OCR, searchable)
Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.
Great Scott! HIS gentleman is - evidently quite stirred up. The possibilities are that he has just remem- bered that he has not read the last issue of that bully fiction magazine— =|! ALLSTORY WEEKLY ress. which goes on sale Every THurspay at all newsdealers. Price TEN CENTS. But, just to show you what you yourselves may miss, let it be under- stood that in the September 2nd issue you will find «BREATH OF THE DRAGON,” a remarkable story of the late Empress Tzu Hsi and the Imperial Court of the Chinese Empire. Also, «Tue Strep-Liveies,” a rapid-fire story of two young people and a railroad in difficulties. Then Frank R. Adams has a rollicking comedy of love and the occult, «Tue Dame anp Pyrutas.” But watch for the “different” story, “Tue Man in THE Mirror.” It’s up to you. Don’t miss the pleasure of reading this issue. The Frank A. Munsey Company, 8 West Fortieth Street, New York City comicbooks.com