The Wasp — 1879 — page 149: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page contains satirical letters and commentary rather than cartoons. The left illustration shows a caricatured figure at a writing desk, apparently depicting social commentary about theatrical performances and San Francisco society figures. The main content discusses scandal involving theatrical productions, specifically criticizing performances at the California Theatre and character behavior. There's extended mockery of various individuals' conduct, including references to "Brother Temple," Captain Jack, and various society members. The "Human Trash and their Deserts" section critiques lower-class criminal behavior and vagrant figures in San Francisco, with particular scorn directed at individuals engaging in robbery, assault, and con artistry. The overall tone is biting social satire targeting both theatrical pretension and urban vice, characteristic of Wasp magazine's exposé journalism style.