The Wasp — April 17, 1880 — page 2: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# The San Francisco Wasp, April 17, 1880 This satirical illustration depicts men in water with distressed expressions, labeled "BLUBBERS CLAMORING ABOUT NOTHING." The accompanying text mentions "Torrey was born in a duck pond and fed on slime and blubber"—attributed to Rev. J.S. Kalloch, describing "the manner of his feeding." The cartoon appears to be political mockery, likely targeting specific San Francisco figures involved in a contemporary controversy. The "blubber" metaphor suggests the subjects are portrayed as fat, stupid, or morally corrupt. The aquatic setting and desperate poses ridicule them as helpless or pathetic. Without clearer identification of Torrey and the specific 1880 incident referenced, the precise political target remains unclear, though the satire is unmistakably harsh and personal.