Life — February 26, 1920 — page 7: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Analysis: "The Spirit of the Time" This page contains two distinct pieces of social commentary: **Top section**: A poem by Berton Braley critiquing profiteers and labor unrest. It mocks those who exploit crises ("The laborer who goes on strike / For things unjustifiable"), suggesting strikers should accept conditions rather than demand change. The verse advocates accepting the status quo despite injustice. **Bottom cartoon**: A courtroom scene where a chauffeur is questioned about backing his wagon into someone. When asked if he had words to use, he replies he "didn't have a chance to use 'em"—implying he was struck before he could speak. The satire suggests the working class (represented by the chauffeur) lacks voice or opportunity to defend themselves, complementing the poem's theme about labor's powerlessness against those in authority.