In his letter to Rice, the author reveals an ambitious plan for the Chicago World's Fair, proposing to construct a massive vertical wheel with a diameter of 250 feet. This project hints at a revolutionary attraction that would capture the imagination of fairgoers. However, the letter does not fully disclose the grand scale and significance of his vision, which goes beyond mere entertainment.
The book "The Devil in the White City" by Erik Larson explores not only the creation of this iconic attraction but also the darker elements surrounding the fair, intertwining stories of innovation and tragedy. This juxtaposition of progress and madness illustrates the complexities of an era marked by both ambition and chaos, ultimately showcasing how the fair transformed America.