The Wasp — 1891 — page 473: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This satirical page mocks a perceived wave of murders in San Francisco. The title suggests that violent crime has become a trendy phenomenon ("fad") rather than serious criminal activity. The cartoon depicts various scenarios of murder and violence across urban settings—men shooting each other, armed confrontations, and bodies. The style suggests dark social commentary on a specific crime outbreak or wave affecting the city. One caption references "the wholesale murder of our policemen continues" and notes "San Francisco will need to have a new force," indicating the satire targets violence against law enforcement specifically. The overall message appears to be sardonic criticism of either actual escalating murders in San Francisco or public hysteria about crime, presented through exaggerated, grotesque imagery typical of Wasp magazine's satirical approach.