In Volume VI, No. 9 of The Masses published in June 1915, the focus lies on satire, humor, and art as tools for social critique. The magazine showcases a collection of works by various artists associated with the Masses group, well-known for their biting commentary on societal issues such as child labor, Christianity, political corruption, judicial and charity graft, industrial exploitation, and wage slavery.
The issue demonstrates how humor is used to expose hypocrisy and challenge established norms through the works of artists like John Sloan, Art Young, and Glenn O. Coleman. The art in this publication reveals a deep understanding of life’s complexities and the interconnectedness of seemingly disparate elements within society.
Notably, humor in this context is presented as earnest and analytical rather than merely comedic, serving to enlighten readers about social issues by revealing their absurdity or contradictions. The magazine’s content offers a unique perspective on societal ills through the lens of humor, proving that satire can be an effective method for sparking change and promoting critical thinking among its readership.