The Squeal

This drawing, published in 'The Bulletin' on December 5, 1918, was one of Lindsay's wartime illustrations that tended to be apocalyptic rather than satirical, representing the eternal forces of good against those of evil. Depicted in this cartoon is a German officer, his face similar to the 'German Ogre' who appeared in many of Lindsay's war posters. It is one of the few examples where the German looks disadvantages and worried. The accompanying caption: “The new Bavarian Government has informed the Allies that Bavaria is now a ‘People’s State’, and that the terms of the armistice will bring chaos.” – Cable. / The defeated: “Ach, mein camerade, remember dot ve are now a vree and enlightened republic. Gif us cheap, easy terms. Dis Armistice vill lead to chaos.” / The victor: “You don’t say so. Well, chaos is a d___ sight too good for you” dates the scene to the early days of the Wiemar Republic.

Norman Alfred William Lindsay (1879 – 1969) was a highly accomplished artist, author and cartoonist, from the early twentieth century. Joining Sydney’s The Bulletin in 1901, he worked as a political cartoonist for over 50 years from 1901-1901, 1910-1923 and 1932-1958.