The Devil in the White City: Murder, Magic, and Madness at the Fair that Changed America Madness Quotes

How we cite our quotes: (Part.Chapter.Paragraph)

Quote #1

The rational explanation laid blame on the forces of change that during this time had convulsed Chicago. Amid so much turmoil it was understandable that the work of a young and handsome doctor would go unnoticed. As time passed, however, even sober men and women began to think of him in less-than-rational terms. (Prologue.9)

Can you rationalize madness? Some certainly claimed it was the great change that swept through Chicago that prompted Holmes' actions. But as the nation would later come to learn, no outside force could have made Holmes do what he did.

Quote #2

"I was born with the devil in me," [Holmes] wrote. "I could not help the fact that I was a murderer, no more than the poet can help the inspiration to sing." (1.10.25)

We get it Holmes; you're a little different. But saying you're the devil? That may be taking it a little far.

Quote #3

He liked being near enough to hear the approach of death in the rising panic of his victims. This was when his quest for possession entered its most satisfying phase. (3.5.4)

What about hearing his victims panic satisfies Holmes? We're gonna go ahead and say this isn't normal.