Life — March 22, 1917 — page 7: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Analysis of Life Magazine Page This page contains three satirical pieces about modern life's pace and values. **"Must Be Lenient"** depicts a domestic dispute where a Japanese butler threw a knife at his employer—a servant behavioral transgression the employer dismisses as merely a minor lapse in manners. The satire mocks upper-class tolerance of serious misconduct when it involves servants, suggesting class-based double standards. **"In the Grain"** presents a conversation questioning whether life without modern conveniences (telephones, automobiles, newspapers, movies) might actually be preferable, allowing time for romance and appreciating nature. The satire critiques modern society's assumption that technological progress necessarily improves life. **"All's Not Gold That Glitters"** (bottom illustration) appears to comment on materialism and false values, suggesting that not all that appears valuable truly is. The overall theme criticizes modern society's priorities and social hypocrisies.