Boyfriend 'X' and I frequent an Italian restaurant off the Edens Expressway. Near the entrance, there is a poster of an editorial cartoon. It is from the pen of the late Jeff MacNelly, a multi-Pulitzer Prize winner. No matter how often we return to this place, I always find this cartoon hilarious. Writing about it does not do it justice.
You see, there are a number of peculiarities about Chicago. Here are some rough takes from this cartoon:
Chicago, city of neighborhoods (actually, 77 are recognized) and neighborhood bars. The poster shows a Playboy club with bunnies (as in rabbits) bounding out the front door. Incidentally, some bars are not called bars but "Public Houses."
A billboard painter is cursing as he notices he painted, in huge letters for all to see, "Chicago, the City That Worsk!"
A city known for its gangsters and politicians. Both are well dressed in similar suits, while they stand in front of microphones and cameras. The only difference between the two is the gangster is covering his face with a large hat. The politician is holding a similar hat while he smiles broadly.
A city know for it Parades and Unions. Shows parade goers holding placards. One reads "International Lady's Garment Squeezers Union". Another proclaims "National Counter Top Movers."
The Windy City: a former mayor is "orating" before a throng of reporters scribbling notes. Their hats are being blown off, their hair is wind blown and their suits are getting rumpled from the 'wind' of her voice.
There is an inset showing a Cubs player. At the top it reads "Second City." The player is thinking to himself "Hell, I'd settle for fourth!"
Chicago is a city of ethnic restaurants. Over a restaurant door is a sign with words similar to: "Stan's Kung Foo, Soul Food, Kosher/Greek Deep Dish Pizza."
Behind all the scenes is part of the downtown skyline. The John Hancock Tower looms over everything else, seemingly being buzzed by a jet airliner.