The tailpiece story from the Wynpress issue offers a poignant reflection on perception and prejudice, wrapped in a clever twist of irony. Set in Rome, it follows two beggars—one holding a Cross, the other a Star of David—as passersby disproportionately favor the former. When the Pope observes the scene, he attributes the disparity to cultural bias, advising the Star of David beggar to abandon his symbol in a Catholic city. The beggar, however, responds with dry wit, turning to his companion and quipping, “Moishe, would you look who’s trying to teach the Goldstein brothers about marketing!” The tale underscores the absurdity of stereotyping while highlighting the resilience of humor in the face of discrimination.
The story’s strength lies in its layered commentary: it critiques societal favoritism toward certain symbols while celebrating the beggar’s sharp awareness of human behavior. By reframing the Pope’s earnest but misguided advice as a lesson in marketing, the narrative subverts expectations, blending religious imagery with a modern critique of bias. It leaves readers with a lingering question—how often do we judge others based on superficial markers, rather than the substance of their humanity? The tale’s enduring appeal rests in its ability to provoke thought through simplicity, proving that even the most unlikely characters can deliver profound insights.