The Wasp — 1881 — page 193: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

The main illustration shows a grotesque figure labeled as satire of a public figure, though the specific identity isn't entirely clear from the image alone. The accompanying "Prattle" column—The Wasp's signature satirical commentary section—discusses literary criticism, particularly praising poems by Platt, Wordsworth, and others while critiquing their work. The column contains gossip about various social scandals, including references to Chicago society figures and marital infidelities. It mocks religious hypocrisy and criticizes newspapers for sensationalism. The text includes humorous commentary on contemporary social issues, personal vendettas, and literary figures of the period. The overall tone is biting satire aimed at San Francisco's elite and cultural pretensions of the late 19th century.