Life — November 20, 1931 — page 10: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# "The Thanksgiving Proclamation" - Life Magazine This page satirizes Thanksgiving observance during what appears to be a period of national concern (likely WWI era, given references to "defending our shores" and birth control undermining the country). The cartoon depicts three military or government officials in an office, with the caption "Now then, let's talk about you." The image suggests bureaucratic interrogation or surveillance—poking fun at government overreach during patriotic holidays. The accompanying essays mock various approaches to Thanksgiving: Walt Mason warns against enemy airplanes attacking dinner; Al Capone (likely a fictional insertion) insists patriots observe the holiday; others offer humorous takes on the tradition. The overall tone ridicules how Thanksgiving becomes weaponized for political purposes rather than remaining a simple family observance.