The Impossible Dream (House) – Original Art by Lou Erickson
Artist: Lou Erickson (Penciller)
3 Comments - 25 Views - 0 Like
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The Atlanta Journal (Atlanta, Georgia) · Wed, Mar 9, 1977 · Page 18
Artwork Details
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DescriptionTitle: The Impossible Dream (House) – Original Art by Lou EricksonArtist: Lou Erickson (Penciller) Medium: Pen and Ink Type: Published Editorial Illustration Publication: The Atlanta Journal, March 9, 1977, Page 18 Dimensions: Approx. 9" width (as marked for print) Original Use: Editorial cartoon on housing affordability Description: This published editorial cartoon by Lou Erickson—featuring a starry-eyed couple labeled “Prospective Homebuyer” staring longingly at a cloud-supported dream house atop a massive dollar sign—captured the disillusionment of the American middle class during a time of rising mortgage rates, inflation, and economic uncertainty. Originally printed in The Atlanta Journal on March 9, 1977, this piece underscores the challenges buyers faced despite relatively low nominal home prices. With inflation eroding wages and mortgage rates hovering around 8.5–9%, home ownership felt increasingly out of reach—turning the American Dream into “The Impossible Dream.” Provenance: From the Lou Erickson estate, with velox production notes and publication confirmed by the matching newspaper clipping. Collector’s Insight: This cartoon exemplifies Erickson’s deft touch in blending humor with sobering economic commentary. A timely and still-resonant depiction of financial anxiety in America, this is a standout piece in any editorial cartoon collection focused on economic history. Social/Sharing |
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Marcus Wai 
Member Since 2005
Posted on 7/30/2025
It is still one of the biggest purchases/committments one makes during their lifetime and the wage gap has widened even more since then. A modern example is Homer Simpson in the 90's could afford a two story house on a single salary as a lowly power plant worker drone. That Frank Grimes episode is all of us incredulous of Homer's good fortune.
Alan E
Member Since 2025
1 - Posted on 7/30/2025
Marcus Wai wrote:
It is still one of the biggest purchases/committments one makes during their lifetime and the wage gap has widened even more since then. A modern example is Homer Simpson in the 90's could afford a two story house on a single salary as a lowly power plant worker drone. That Frank Grimes episode is all of us incredulous of Homer's good fortune.
Homer owns a house, supports a family, and still has time to nap on the job.
Marcus Wai
Member Since 2005
1 - Posted on 7/30/2025
Alan E wrote:
Homer owns a house, supports a family, and still has time to nap on the job.
No one batted an eye back then.
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