Life — September 20, 1917 — page 11: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# "Where the Varmint Belongs" This cartoon depicts Uncle Sam (identifiable by his characteristic top hat and starred outfit) on a ladder, painting or applying something to a demonic creature emerging from what appears to be a brick wall or chimney. The demon figure—grotesque, multi-armed, and menacing—likely represents a political enemy or social threat that Life's editors wanted eliminated. The title "Where the Varmint Belongs" suggests banishment or destruction of an undesirable force. Without additional context about the publication date, the specific threat referenced remains unclear, though the imagery invokes American frontier imagery ("varmint") combined with Uncle Sam's authority to address national problems. The satirical tone suggests Life was endorsing aggressive action against whatever this creature symbolized.