Life — March 23, 1922 — page 3: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# "Fame!" - Life Magazine Cartoon Analysis This page combines a humorous short story with a single cartoon. The story mocks a scientist's vanity—he obsesses over historical fame while crossing the Suez Canal, only to be forgotten until accidentally mentioned in a school history book. Students then trivialize his accomplishment: he's remembered only for putting his head in mud during Queen Elizabeth's reign. The cartoon below illustrates a domestic joke unrelated to the story. A couple ice-skates while two dogs run alongside. The woman (Virginia) tells her friend that ill health "attacks one's weakest spot," implying her male companion George suffers headaches. The cartoon humorously suggests marital friction—the woman's sweetly-voiced comment is actually a jab at her partner's afflictions.