Life — May 1933 — page 10: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Analysis This page features a tintype photograph by Tony Balcom of **William H. Woodin**, identified as Secretary of the Treasury. The image uses surrealist/cubist visual distortion—fragmenting and reassembling facial features geometrically—to create a deliberately grotesque portrait. The caption quotes Woodin claiming he prefers guitar over zither or violin because he doesn't "have so much trouble getting into bed with it." The satire likely mocks Woodin's musicianship or his public persona. The distorted portrait may suggest incompetence or unsuitability for his Treasury role, while the quote—seemingly innocent about instrumental practicality—carries potential double entendre about his habits or character. This appears designed as humorous political commentary typical of *Life* magazine's satirical approach to public figures.