In "The Devil in the White City," Samuel Gompers criticizes the stark economic disparities of his time. He questions why the nation's wealth is concentrated in banks while many workers are left homeless, highlighting the injustices faced by the labor class. Gompers's rhetoric emphasizes the moral dilemma of seeing the affluent enjoy their wealth while those who contribute to society struggle for basic needs.

His poignant observations serve as a call to action, urging for a more equitable distribution of wealth. Gompers's words reflect the wider social issues of the era, painting a vivid picture of the disconnect between rich and poor, and the societal consequences that arise from such inequalities. The contrast between the lives of the wealthy and the plight of the working class is a central theme, underscoring the need for reform and recognition of labor rights.