Puck — April 30, 1879 — page 2: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Puck Magazine - May Page Analysis The main cartoon features **Puck himself** (the publication's mascot—a mischievous sprite) perched atop a large letter "A," illustrating a poem about May's arrival. This is decorative rather than political satire. The page's political content appears in the **"Putterings"** section and articles below. These target: - A Democratic appropriations bill ("Wasn't Sykes an Appropriation Bill?") - Republican political strategy regarding Southern troops and the nation's stability - Criticism of "objectionable political balloons" and political corruption The **"Vanderbilt versus Decency"** section mocks wealthy industrialist William Vanderbilt's tasteless Fifth Avenue mansion advertising, contrasting his wealth with ethical concerns. Overall, this page blends seasonal verse with sharp political commentary on Gilded Age corruption and party politics.