Life — December 19, 1918 — page 8: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# "The Old Salt" and "Frank About It" This page features two satirical pieces about seafaring life. "The Old Salt" is a nostalgic poem by Thomas Dykes Boadby celebrating a weathered sailor's experiences—Arctic exploration, whaling, naval service—with romantic language about maritime adventure. "Frank About It" appears to be a short satirical piece by Phillips about vacation indulgence. A woman criticizes her husband's expensive leisure habits, particularly his drinking ("coats and excessive indulgence in alcoholic liquors"). He deflects by claiming his stomach troubles justify the behavior—a typical domestic satire mocking male excuses for overindulgence and the gap between husbands' and wives' perspectives on household spending. The accompanying illustrations show period scenes of social interaction and leisure activities.