The Wasp — 1893 — page 201: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page contains several satirical sketches typical of late-19th-century American humor magazines. **"The New Reporter"** mocks an inexperienced journalist fresh from university who lacks practical knowledge. The City Editor dismissively instructs him to observe real life rather than rely on academic training. **"It Worked Both Ways"** tells an anecdote about two North Side boys—David and another youth—whose prank backfired. David hid in a couch to surprise visiting young ladies, but they discovered him and turned the joke against him, forcing him to apologize. **"Frisco Celebrities"** appears to be a brief section highlighting local figures. The remaining sketches—"Had No Terrors for Him," "Mulvey's Astronomy," and "He Was a Commuter, Sure"—present short humorous dialogues mocking pretension, ignorance, and commuting complaints. The overall tone targets urban incompetence and social awkwardness.