The Wasp — 1892 — page 120: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page contains five separate short satirical pieces with accompanying illustrations, typical of The Wasp's format. **"A Poet's Revenge"** mocks the rivalry between two minor poets competing for publication in the *Evening Post*. The satire targets petty literary jealousy and the underhanded tactics used in publishing disputes of the era. **"How He Dictated"** appears to satirize a businessman's pretentious manner of conducting office dictation, likely poking fun at affected corporate behavior. **"A Pertinent Question"** depicts a lawyer's encounter with a Kentucky judge over whiskey etiquette—satirizing regional social customs and judicial conduct. **"Knew He Was Not An American"** ridicules a streetcar conductor's observation of female passengers' behavior, suggesting xenophobic attitudes about "proper" American femininity. **"Nature's Loveliness"** and other pieces offer lighter social commentary on contemporary manners and morality.