Life — March 3, 1921 — page 27: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This 1923 cartoon by W.H. Walker depicts a large crowd of people swarming around what appears to be a donkey (visible in the foreground, darker/shaded). A sign reads "THE ELEPHANT NEEDS MORE HAY," suggesting political commentary—likely referencing the Republican Party (symbolized by the elephant) and their political needs or demands. The massive crowd surrounding the donkey suggests the donkey (possibly representing the Democratic Party or a political opponent) has become unexpectedly popular despite efforts to diminish it. The Washington Capitol building is visible in the background, confirming the political context. The satire appears to mock the irony of something dismissed as a "donkey" actually gaining substantial public support.