Life — May 13, 1920 — page 34: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This two-panel satire contrasts economic inequality during the income tax era (appears to be early 20th century). **Top panel**: A middle-class husband apologizes to his wife (named Lilly) that they cannot afford a summer vacation because all available money must go to income taxes. He accepts this patriotically, saying the government needs it more. **Bottom panel**: Shows wealthy people at what appears to be a racing venue or sporting event, enjoying leisure activities without financial constraint. The caption references a "Congressional junket to the Orient" supposedly for studying how "Japanese, Chinese, Koreans, Philippinos and others manage to meet living costs" — implying Congress travels lavishly while ordinary citizens sacrifice. The cartoon's point: ordinary workers bear the tax burden while the wealthy and government officials enjoy luxury. The title "Some Can and Some Can't" underscores this disparity.