Life, 1922-06-08 · page 5 of 34
Life — June 8, 1922 — page 5: what you’re looking at
What you’re looking at
This poem-illustrated cartoon depicts two men in conversation, labeled "Sam to John." Based on the context, "Sam" appears to be addressing "John" about a neighborly dispute, likely involving money or a boundary disagreement ("shifted the buck / To Ireland"). The satire concerns two figures settling a conflict—Sam admits wrongdoing but deflects blame, while offering reconciliation through hospitality (wine, "Entente Cordiale"). The reference to Ireland and "shifting the buck" suggests this may represent Anglo-Irish relations or a diplomatic dispute of the era when Life published satirical commentary on international affairs. The ornate, classical frame underscores the contrast between civilized appearance and petty human quarreling.
📄 Transcribed text from this page (OCR, searchable)
Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.
@ 3 ee DEAR John, I am moved by the course of events To write you a neighborly line, Which I hope you won't think is at all a defence Of a recent refusal of mine. I know that you feel that I ought to come in And sit in that Genoa game ; “There’s Sam,” you remark, “simply loaded with tin! Why, the money he’s got is a shame!” » Well, 'll have to admit there’s some sting in that slap, And I do feel at times rather blue, To think that the job of ree-vising the map, Should be borne so exclusive by you. But, John, as you know, this here Europe is not What you might call a piece of my land, And though its condition, of course, means a lot, Still, 've got my own troubles on hand. And when I observe how you shifted the buck To Ireland, and what a hooray They raised at the wonderful turn in their luck And then, when I see ‘em today !— Though I know there ain't no sort of shadow of blame On you, still, when such things I see, Well, John, I'm plumb scared to come into your game. Gosh! just think what you might hand to me! But when you get through and the gang says good-night 2 If you need any comfort at all, J Well, I guess you know where you can find it all right, And you won't have to wait in the hall. c Our cellars have run sort of dry, I confess, But we still have a glass for a pal, And some wine that you'll find kind of tasty, I guess; It’s this here, now, Entente Cordiale. comicbooks.com