The Wasp — 1878 — page 223: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This satirical illustration from *The Wasp* critiques California politics and social issues. The top panel shows a figure operating a machine labeled "COME DREAM" while another character observes—likely mocking unrealistic political promises or aspirations. The bottom panel depicts a figure crushed beneath scattered papers and publications, appearing to represent someone overwhelmed by competing political movements or publications. Visible text references include "Constitution," "Curious Rite," and what appears to be various reform or political agendas. The overall satire appears to target California's fractious political landscape—perhaps the proliferation of conflicting reform movements, labor organizations, or political schemes in late 19th-century California. The image suggests these movements were overwhelming or contradictory, burying substantive governance under rhetorical excess.