The Wasp — 1890 — page 356: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

The top cartoon depicts two men discussing a woman's scarf-pin—likely satirizing fashion pretension or social climbing among the wealthy. "Anti-Step-Ladder" is a poem mocking Jim Riley (appears to be a poet) for introducing "step-ladder" verse forms to American literature. The satire criticizes both Riley's poetic innovation and editors/publishers for accepting such work. The complaint is that his poetry looks "confused and awkward," taping awkwardly "to this wise" format—suggesting his verse lacks proper structure and artistic merit. The accompanying "Political Notes" section critiques Democratic and Republican politicians regarding California politics and judicial candidates, reflecting late-19th-century partisan tensions. The lower cartoon labeled "Blutterbeusen" appears unrelated, showing a beer-hall scene with German characters discussing drinking during business hours.