Life — August 10, 1922 — page 2: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Life Magazine Teaser Advertisement This is a house advertisement promoting an upcoming special "Burlesque Number" issue of Life magazine, set to appear September 7th. The chubby cherub illustration represents the playful, irreverent tone. The ad uses mock-secretive language ("Sh-h-h-h-h!") to build anticipation for this mystery issue, referencing a successful burlesque-themed number from the previous year that "sold out all over the country." The coupon invites readers to subscribe to ten issues including this special edition. The tone is deliberately coy and humorous—Life presents itself as slightly scandalous yet respectable, teasing readers with promises of something racy while maintaining satirical propriety. This reflects Life's role as sophisticated humor magazine for educated audiences in the early-to-mid 20th century.