The Wasp — 1891 — page 395: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This satirical story with accompanying illustrations critiques moral hypocrisy around wealth and marriage. A man (Jim) has forgotten to give his girlfriend a Christmas present—a diamond brooch marked $165. When confronted, he claims poverty, but the narrative reveals his true crisis: he must now choose between the brooch and other priorities. The illustrations show domestic chaos and working-class struggle, contrasting sharply with Jim's initial excuse. The satire targets men who claim financial hardship to avoid supporting their partners while maintaining other expenses. The "crisis" is his exposed contradiction between professed poverty and actual spending choices—a commentary on male irresponsibility and the economic vulnerability of women in relationships.