Life — December 6, 1917 — page 2: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Analysis This page is primarily a **cigarette advertisement** for Fatima brand cigarettes, not political satire. The image shows a well-dressed man in formal attire holding a cigarette, posed as a portrait. The advertisement's text argues that Fatimas are "smoked by more men who can afford what they like than any other cigarette," positioning the brand as a luxury product chosen by wealthy, discerning men. The ad emphasizes that Fatimas provide smoking comfort through their "balanced Turkish blend." This represents **early 20th-century advertising strategy**: using an aspirational image of a distinguished gentleman to market cigarettes to affluent male consumers. There is no political cartoon or satire present on this page—it is straightforward commercial promotion typical of Life magazine's revenue model during this period.