The price of ambition from "summary" of The Devil in the White City by Erik Larson
The intertwining stories of Daniel Burnham and H. H. Holmes in "The Devil in the White City" shed light on the contrasting outcomes of ambition. Burnham's ambition to construct the 1893 World's Fair in Chicago was driven by a desire to leave a lasting legacy and showcase American ingenuity on a global stage. Despite facing numerous setbacks and challenges, Burnham's unwavering ambition ultimately led to the successful completion of the Fair, solidifying his reputation as a visionary architect and urban planner. In stark contrast, H. H. Holmes' insatiable ambition was fueled by a darker motivation - a thirst for power, control, and ultimately, murder. Holmes manipulated and deceived those around him in pursuit of his twisted ambitions, leading to the deaths of numerous victims in his infamous "Murder Castle." His insatiable ambition ultimately proved to be his downfall, as his crimes were exposed and he faced justice for his heinous acts. Through the parallel narratives of Burnham and Holmes, Larson explores the complex and often destructive nature of ambition. While Burnham's ambition drove him to achieve great feats and leave a positive impact on the world, Holmes' ambition led him down a path of darkness and destruction. The price of ambition, as illustrated in these two contrasting stories, is not always clear-cut - it can lead to both success and ruin, depending on the motivations and actions of those who possess it.
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