Life — February 9, 1922 — page 1: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Analysis This Life magazine cover from February 9, 1922 features an illustration by B. Cory Kilvert titled "Bringing Home the Bacon." The image shows an elf or gnome-like figure juggling what appear to be pigs or pig-related items while wearing a pointed hat and dark clothing. The title and imagery play on the common expression "bringing home the bacon"—meaning earning a living or achieving success. The whimsical character juggling bacon or pigs is likely satirizing prosperity, wealth accumulation, or economic success during the post-World War I period. The playful, fantastical treatment suggests either optimism about economic recovery or possibly ironic commentary on financial aspirations of the era. Without additional context from the magazine's interior, the precise satirical target remains unclear.