The Wasp — June 12, 1880 — page 2: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# "Out of His Depth—Shrieking Sharks" This is the cover of *The Wasp* from June 12, 1880. The illustration depicts a bearded man in the water, apparently drowning or struggling amid sharks. The caption "Out of His Depth—Shrieking Sharks" suggests political satire about someone facing dangerous circumstances beyond their ability to handle. Without additional context about San Francisco politics in 1880, the specific identity of the figure remains unclear. The "sharks" likely represent political enemies or dangerous forces. The satire appears to mock someone—possibly a public figure or politician—as incompetent or reckless for entering treacherous political waters. The dramatic, horror-tinged imagery emphasizes the peril of the situation.