The Wasp — May 8, 1880 — page 7: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Analysis of The Wasp Page 662 This page contains three literary pieces—"Nil Desperandum," "Cast Away Genius," and "Sweetheart"—alongside a two-panel cartoon titled "Before and After." The bottom cartoon appears to satirize the effects of alcohol consumption. The left panel ("Sup-Port") shows a man cheerfully drinking wine, while the right panel ("Sup-Herb") depicts him in a deteriorated state, appearing ill or hungover. The visual pun plays on "sup" (to take supper/drink) combined with herbs, suggesting remedies for intoxication. The literary content emphasizes perseverance through hardship and romantic sentiment, contrasting with the cartoon's darker commentary on vice. The overall page mixes inspirational verse with satirical critique typical of 19th-century American magazines.