Life — August 23, 1917 — page 7: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Analysis The page features an illustration titled "St. Michael Leading the Airships" depicting allegorical figures in combat. St. Michael (a traditional symbol of righteousness) appears to be battling demonic or evil forces, with airships visible in the background. The accompanying article, "Concerning Postage Rates," argues against exempting picture postcards from postal rate increases. The author contends that postcards are luxury items—less necessary than letters—and notes the irony that exempting them would burden letter-writers. The piece sarcastically suggests that if the government truly valued the postal rate increase, it should require a one-cent rebate on letters to offset postcard exemptions. The cartoon likely satirizes government hypocrisy or corruption regarding postal policy, with St. Michael symbolizing moral opposition to unfair practices.