Life — June 7, 1917 — page 2: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Analysis This page is primarily a **Michelin Tire advertisement**, not political satire. The content features a poem about "Old Ironsides" (a ship) encountering tire dealers. The narrative uses the conceit of the ship's owner seeking tire recommendations. A truthful dealer endorses Michelin's "Mich-El-In" brand, praising its durability and value. The advertisement includes: - A large detailed illustration of a Michelin tire on the left - The company's mascot (Bibendum, the "Michelin Man") depicted as a rotund figure made of tire treads, shown on the right with a vintage automobile and two men in period dress - The Michelin Casings & Tubes logo This is **commercial advertising** rather than satirical commentary, using verse and characters to promote tire quality and affordability to early 20th-century automobile owners.