Life — November 7, 1918 — page 9: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Explanation for Modern Readers This 1918 Life magazine page satirizes American wartime habits and attitudes during World War I. The title "Our Beautiful New Habits—Will They Last?" questions whether wartime behavioral changes will persist after the conflict ends. The cartoons illustrate specific wartime adaptations: one shows someone drinking distilled water instead of other beverages (likely referencing Prohibition efforts), while another depicts military discipline becoming normalized in civilian life. The main text argues that extraordinary habits—like industrial efficiency, obedience to authority, and sacrifice—were adopted to "win the war." The author expresses doubt these habits will survive peacetime, musing whether Americans will return to pre-war complacency or maintain their newfound discipline and unity. The satire critiques American inconsistency and questions whether wartime unity can translate into lasting social improvement.