Puck — July 25, 1877 — page 2: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Analysis of Puck Magazine Page 2 This page contains satirical commentary rather than visual cartoons. Key content includes: **"The Political Pull-Back"** criticizes President Hayes's administration for perceived governmental weakness. The piece mocks Hayes and his cabinet for failing to act decisively, suggesting rival factions (David Dudley Field and Charles A. Dana) have more influence than the president himself. **"An Arithmetical Problem"** presents a humorous reader question about a canal mule's value—a satirical commentary on mercantile absurdity and perhaps railroad labor disputes. **"Puck's Personal Intelligence"** offers gossipy notes about Boston journalists and political figures, including references to elections and publications like the *Skowhegan Palladium*. The page emphasizes Puck's satirical mission: mocking governmental ineffectiveness, corporate interests, and journalistic pretension during the Gilded Age.