In "The Devil in the White City," Erik Larson explores the contrasting lives of Frederick Law Olmsted, a renowned landscape architect, and H.H. Holmes, a serial killer. Olmsted is celebrated for his ability to create harmonious, beauty-filled spaces, using nature as his canvas. Daniel Burnham's quote emphasizes Olmsted's artistry in shaping the American landscape, highlighting the significance of his work in transforming environments through parks and public spaces.

The book illustrates how Olmsted's designs contributed to the cultural and social fabric of America during the 1893 World's Fair. While Olmsted was dedicated to elevating the human experience through nature, Holmes represents the darker aspects of human ambition and deception. This juxtaposition enriches the narrative, reflecting both the triumphs and tragedies of that era.