Life — May 8, 1931 — page 6: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# "Brighter and Funnier Ghosts" This is a humorous essay by Tom Simi imagining what life would be like if he were a ghost. Rather than the traditional gloomy specter, Simi proposes cheerful, mischievous hauntings—interfering with sports (catching Babe Ruth's home runs, intercepting President Hoover's fishing), sabotaging musical performances, and playing pranks on public figures like Arthur Brisbane and Albert Einstein. The central joke contrasts the stereotypical melancholy ghost with an energetic, prankster spirit who'd actually enjoy haunting. Simi suggests American culture needs "brighter" ghosts—a lighthearted social commentary using supernatural humor. The accompanying sketch shows figures on a ladder, illustrating the playful tone. The piece is essentially comedic fantasy rather than political satire.