The quote reflects on the contrasting choices individuals make in how they spend their limited time. Some men are drawn to pursuits that are unattainable or foolish, perhaps seeking thrill or challenge, while others become preoccupied with cultivating sadness or despair. This highlights a profound commentary on human behavior and the existential dilemmas we face in life.
Erik Larson, in "The Devil in the White City," delves into these themes set against the backdrop of the 1893 World’s Fair. By exploring the lives of its characters, he illustrates the complexities of ambition, creativity, and the darker aspects of the human psyche that lead to both innovation and tragedy.