Evening Republican, Volume 59, Number 60, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 2 April 1917 — ORDEALS LOSE THEIR SAVOR [ARTICLE]

ORDEALS LOSE THEIR SAVOR

Unpleasant Things to Which People Submit Because They Have Become an Acknowledged Custom. There are some things In this world that do not bear analysis. When we pause to consider why we perform this act or submit to that ordeal, the anewer io a kind of mental alienee- era remonstrant, “Nevermore.” And then we go ahead and perform the same act or submit tothesameordeal. For Instance, why was a photograph ever taken of a banquet? Every such photograph has looked about the same as all others since the original resemblance was established when the second was taken. A crowd of men in dress suits, or a gathering of mon and women in evening attire, sit looking up at the camera. The expression on their faces is about as animated as the oysters that invariably lie expectant of their fate before the diners. In fact, no simple-faced child ever searched as Inanely for “the little bird” as the photographed diner sits in awe of the lightning and thunder of the caurersrumnv tfrrsh-bags. Of course, the flashlightphotograph of a formal dinner may have its uses in the home. It should prove as enjoyable as a puzele-picture to the young child who sets out to find “papa” among the serried monotony of upturned faces and dress suits. If the prices of food go up ,any more, It may become a pleasant reminder that once upon a time we had a square meal. But it is a silly ordeal for the diner, just the same. Howevef, we suppose that we shall continue so be photographed as we dine on state occasions, and if anybody is in the way we probably shall tilt our head a bit so as to get into the picture.