Life — January 8, 1920 — page 9: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Analysis This is a satirical illustration from *Life* magazine (page 57) depicting two working-class men—a younger and older laborer—walking together while conversing. Both wear work clothes and aprons; one carries a bucket, suggesting manual labor. The caption reads: "A MAN IS KNOWN BY THE COMPANY HE KEEPS." This is a visual play on the traditional proverb about character being reflected by one's associates. The satire appears to comment on social mobility and class perception: the illustration suggests that laborers or working-class men are judged by their companions, likely critiquing either class prejudice or making commentary on workers' social standing. The artist's signature appears to read "Warren DeLarris" or similar. Without additional context about the magazine's publication date, the specific social circumstances remain somewhat unclear, though the piece critiques class-based social judgment.