Life — November 21, 1930 — page 12: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Analysis of Life Magazine Page **"Causes for Thanksgiving"** presents humorous quotes from public figures expressing gratitude—Alfred Smith (Manhattan resident relieved not to be president), Calvin Coolidge (thanking heaven for helpful platitudes), Richard Byrd (grateful there's no further Pole to explore), and Hoover (glad he has no genie). **"Pluto Blues"** is a brief sci-fi joke about the newly-discovered planet Pluto, suggesting its long day-length would be called "Monday." **The main cartoon** depicts Santa Claus visiting a modern apartment, with the caption "Lord-dy, Boss! Is that there you?" and "It used to be"—satirizing how cramped urban living has replaced traditional homes. The remaining brief items mock contemporary social topics: hospital openings, prohibition-era gin drinking, newspaper clarity, and school reopenings.