The Wasp — 1892 — page 135: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page contains three separate pieces of satirical content: 1. **"Our Pictures"** (left column): Commentary on The Wasp's Mars illustration, defending artistic merit against religious critics who objected to depictions of Mars life. The text defends imaginative science fiction while critiquing excessive religious revival meetings. 2. **"A Summer Romance"** (center): A sentimental poem about a mermaid and city youth, apparently mocking melodramatic romance literature popular at the time. 3. **"Three Months After Marriage"** (right): Satirizes newlywed domestic life, depicting a wife complaining about cold dinners and the husband's indifference—poking fun at marriage's disappointments versus romantic expectations. **"Trouble About Labor"** (bottom): Brief dialogue mocking labor organizers and strikes, suggesting workers organizing collectively are troublemakers. The overall tone is irreverent social commentary typical of late-19th century American satirical magazines.