The quote highlights the disregard that the broader society had for St. Louis's opinions, despite acknowledging the city's courage and determination. It suggests that while St. Louis attempted to assert itself, its efforts were overshadowed by larger narratives or more influential voices, which often neglected the city's contributions and perspectives. This theme is reflective of the dynamics of power and recognition in historical contexts, where certain cities or regions gain prominence over others.

In Erik Larson's "The Devil in the White City," this sentiment resonates with the historical backdrop of the World’s Columbian Exposition and how cities vied for attention and significance during this transformative period. St. Louis's struggle for relevance is emblematic of a larger struggle many cities faced as they sought to carve out their identities amidst the rapid changes of the era, revealing the competitive nature of American cities during the late 19th century.