The Wasp — 1893 — page 576: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This satirical cartoon critiques the shallow materialism of San Francisco's high society and the complicity of society reporters in promoting it. **The scene:** A wealthy man (Mr. Jackson Street) discusses wearing diamonds to an exclusive Catillan Event with a society reporter (Mrs. J.S.). **The satire:** The reporter dismisses concerns that diamonds look "plain" for social events—she's more interested in publicizing extravagant display than genuine substance. Jackson's comment about "Ned Greenway sorting that same old chestnut about the *proud rich* themed poor" suggests wealthy elites recycle tired excuses about their conspicuous consumption. **The point:** Society reporters uncritically amplify the vanity and pretense of the wealthy rather than questioning their values. The cartoon mocks both the status-obsessed rich and the press that enables their ego.