Product placement fail

Is it just me, or is this particular diaper ad a singularly bad deal for the Washington Times, falling as it does after the lede on a story about a Trump twitter rant?

What we drink about when we drink about war

This ad is sort of how we talk about beer, but it's really more how we talk -- or don't -- about the state of exception. It's from Life's April 13, 1942, issue, and it appears (make of that what you will) in the middle of a big spread about the "vermin press":

In times like these, all of us feel increasing need to be together in friendly groups. Courage and stamina are bred in the circle of good companionship. But certainly we are not in the mood for big, lavish parties. 

Beer and ale are very naturally the basis of today's simple hospitality. Beer is the very symbol of friendship ... of rest and peace after work and strain.

It is the beverage of thoughtful and tolerant people who live sanely and wisely. Most important of all, beer is the beverage of moderation for a self-disciplined people.

Well, and it's also how we talk about gender:

... Remember that beer and ale can do much during these strenuous times to bring relaxation and pleasure to your husband, your family, and your circle of friends.

Today in journalism: Fighting salmon

If you're wondering whether there's any advertiser in the 1943 Globe and Mail who can't make a claim on the war effort, the answer is "no, probably not":

Too valuable to stay at home, Canadian canned salmon has been selected, among other vital foods, to nourish and sustain the fighting millions of Britain.

... a fact worth remembering in times of peace.

Thanks, guys!

Today in journalism, 1943: Battle stations

Remember, kids, those vital war calls won't go through if you're yapping away on the long-distance lines! Bell of Canada offers these handy tips:

• Place Long Distance calls only when absolutely necessary ... especially to busy war centres.
• Plan your conversation ahead of time -- keep it as brief as you can.
• When possible, give the operator the out-of-town number you are calling.
• Avoid Long Distance talks during the busy hours shown in the diagram.

Why tell people not to use so much of your product? Here's what looks like a house ad from later in the week (from the Canadian Daily Newspapers Association), under the hed "Markets of 1945 are being lost and found--NOW!":

LOST: Valuable markets by manufacturers who saw no reason to advertise in 1942 when they had no difficulty to sell their entire output. Consequently, consumers forgot their brands and ceased to ask for them by name.
FOUND: Valuable markets by manuacturers who realized the necessity to maintain the identity of their name and brands under all conditions and at all times, by the constant use of daily newspaper advertising.

Use those comments, gang, but keep it short.