Life — February 15, 1917 — page 8: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Analysis This page from *Life* magazine contains two satirical pieces: **"Prepared"** (dialogue at bottom left) mocks upper-class fashion discussions. Elmer and Hubert debate outfit choices using affected language ("passionate discussion of dress"), while an "Electrical Curtain" joke by Kenneth L. Roberts follows. **"Victory"** (upper right) is political satire on wartime economics. A "famous food expert" argues that eating slowly reduces food consumption and household expenses—a cost-of-living concern during what appears to be WWI. The expert cynically suggests that only farmers in the Middle West will prosper enough to afford "the golden table," implying ordinary citizens will struggle. The illustration (top) depicts well-dressed figures in conversation, supporting the fashion-focused satire below. **Overall theme:** Class-based humor mocking both frivolous fashion concerns and hollow wartime economic advice.