Life — February 1, 1917 — page 6: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Analysis This is primarily a **product advertisement** for Weed tire chains, not political satire. The page uses a humorous visual metaphor to sell automotive safety equipment. The cartoon shows a grotesque face/head forming the differential mechanism of a car's rear axle, with the caption "What's the use?" The accompanying text explains why two chains—one on each rear wheel—are necessary for traction and safe braking, not just one. The "face" isn't a caricature of a specific political figure, but rather a generic scary visage used to comedically personify mechanical failure. The advertisement argues that motorists who skimp on safety chains risk disaster, making the product seem essential rather than optional. This reflects early automotive safety concerns from the pre-modern tire era.