The Wasp — April 17, 1880 — page 4: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Analysis of The Wasp Page 611 This page contains two distinct sections: **Upper section:** A satirical dialogue titled "SENATOR KANE IN PROPER COMPANY—WHAT A FALL WAS THERE!" mocking Senator Kane. The conversation reveals Kane allegedly refused to provide his name to a Committee investigating a cadet appointment, then later offered money to influence the matter. The satire attacks Kane's hypocrisy—he claims moral superiority while engaging in exactly the corrupt behavior he denounces. References to "Irish-man" and "Scotchman" suggest ethnic stereotyping typical of 1880s-90s satire. **Lower section:** "THE PRISONER FOR BLASPHEMY," a parody poem mocking harsh laws against speech deemed blasphemous or seditious. It ridicules criminalizing expressions like "Chinese must fly!" and attacking "law and order," portraying such prosecutions as absurd oppression of liberty. Both pieces critique government hypocrisy and overreach.