Life — August 26, 1920 — page 12: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Political Satire Analysis: "Preaching and Practicing" This page presents a satirical play mocking Republican hypocrisy during a political campaign. The title "Preaching and Practicing" sets up the central joke: politicians advocate for government conservation measures while personally wasting resources. The main cartoon "How to Charm a Traffic Policeman" depicts someone (likely a politician) speeding in an automobile—a luxury suggesting wealth and privilege—while appearing to charm their way out of consequences. The "Campaign Helps" section features Q&A responses emphasizing that party affiliation matters more than actual policy substance or character. One response explicitly states "it is the party" that counts, not the individual. The monks cartoon satirizes political chaos, suggesting politicians' infighting destroys the party itself ("beat it out of here before the tidal wave arrives"). Overall, the page critiques campaign-era hypocrisy and superficial party politics.