Life — November 22, 1917 — page 19: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This Victorian-era engraving depicts a domestic scene with romantic/melodramatic overtones. An older man in formal robes stands with a young woman in classical dress and ornate headpiece. The caption "The Girl He Left Behind Him" suggests a narrative of separation or departure—likely playing on the popular 19th-century song of the same name about soldiers leaving sweethearts. The satire appears to mock sentimental romanticism or, possibly, social hypocrisy regarding relationships and class differences. The woman's classical styling and the man's formal attire suggest this may reference theatrical or literary traditions. Without additional context about Life magazine's specific issue, the exact political or social target remains unclear, though the tone suggests irony toward conventional romantic sentiment.