Life — February 15, 1917 — page 9: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# "A Valentine to the World" (1917) This satirical poem by Arthur Guiterman, published in *Life* magazine (page 253), uses Valentine's Day framing to critique American attitudes and interests during World War I. The poem affectionately catalogs what America loves: Uncle Sam, the Navy, legal institutions, doctors, and notably "our calligraphic President" (likely Woodrow Wilson). It celebrates American technology and military power (Zeppelins, submarines, Kaiser references). The decorative border features whimsical face illustrations and patriotic imagery including "U.S.A.," "HERO," "1917," and "PATRIOT"—reinforcing nationalistic sentiment during America's WWI involvement (declared April 1917). The satire is gentle: affectionate exaggeration of American pride and enthusiasm during wartime mobilization.