Life — June 21, 1917 — page 3: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Analysis This page contains two distinct elements: **Left side:** A short story titled "How Times Have Changed!" featuring Paul Revere's famous 1917 midnight ride. The narrative humor comes from contrasting Revolutionary War drama with modern (1920s) mechanization—Revere now uses an electric horn instead of shouting, and a farmer complains about missing a squirrel in ten years while obsessing over a truck. The accompanying cartoon shows two figures in period costume, illustrating the satirical contrast between historical and contemporary life. **Right side:** A full-page advertisement for Gargoyle Mobiloils (lubricating oil), disguised as technical automotive advice about Ford engine efficiency. The ad emphasizes scientific cooling systems and proper lubrication, positioning the product as essential for vehicle performance. The juxtaposition humorously illustrates how rapidly American life—and consumer needs—had transformed in the early automotive age.