Upton Sinclair's narrative of King Midas is an exploration of the consequences of greed and excess in human nature. Through a re-imagining of the classical myth, Sinclair presents the tragedy of unchecked ambition and its devastating effects upon both Midas himself and those in his inner circle. In this symbolic narrative, he suggests that unchecked avarice has dire consequences for all involved and can only be curtailed through temperance and moderation.