Life — September 7, 1916 — page 21: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This cartoon illustrates the biblical prophecy from Isaiah 11:6, "A little child shall lead them," which describes a future utopian age of peace. The image shows a naked cherub or child figure holding a pointer or wand, appearing to direct or instruct a group of figures in the background—likely representing world leaders, politicians, or humanity generally. The satire suggests that only innocent childhood wisdom could guide the world toward peace and harmony, implying contemporary political leaders are incapable of achieving such ideals through their own efforts. It's a commentary on early 20th-century political dysfunction, proposing that radical moral reformation—symbolized by childlike innocence—is necessary for achieving the promised peaceful "millennium."