Life, 1916-10-19 · page 5 of 42
Life — October 19, 1916 — page 5: what you’re looking at
What you’re looking at
This page features a poem titled "Dependence" by Ralph M. Thomson, accompanied by a sketch of a child nestled in an adult's protective embrace. The poem expresses a child's unwavering emotional dependence on their mother throughout life's journey. Regardless of fame, fortune, or worldly achievement, the speaker pledges their deepest need remains their mother's love, prayers, and emotional support—even into old age. The accompanying illustration reinforces this theme, depicting vulnerability and comfort. The final note references "Arms and the Man (Another Version)" with apologies to Cole Phillips, likely alluding to both Shaw's play and the classical Aeneid opening. This sentimental content reflects early 20th-century Life magazine's mix of satirical humor and genuine pathos about universal human experiences.
📄 Transcribed text from this page (OCR, searchable)
Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.
Dependence HATEVER Fame may have in store, As I life’s fitful course shall run ; However much I may explore The mountain-tops, anear the sun— Let me not, Lord, despite the sky, Which lures me upward through the maze, At any moment climb too high To sing my mother’s praise! Whatever Fortune may elect To give me on my pilgrimage; However much I may direct Some prince’s or some pauper’s wage— Regardless of my lofty niche, Grant me, O Master of my wares, That I may never be too rich To crave my mother’s prayers! Whatever friendly Time may name To sweeten my declining days; However gently Age may aim To scatter peace along the ways— Forbid, O God, though saints untold Should shower blessings from above That I may ever grow too old To need my mother’s love! Ralph M. Thomson. ARMS AND THE MAN (ANOTHER VERSION) With apologies to Coles Phillips comicbooks.com