"The Metropolis" by Upton Sinclair is a novel set in the early 20th-century urban landscape, focusing on the social and economic issues arising from rapid industrialization and urbanization.

The novel is set in a rapidly growing city where industrialization has led to significant economic disparity between the wealthy elite and the working class. Sinclair uses the city as a backdrop to explore the stark contrast between the opulent lives of the elite and the harsh conditions,

Social critique is central to the narrative, with Sinclair examining issues of class struggle and corruption within both political and corporate spheres. The story portrays the exploitation and challenges faced by workers, highlighting the moral and ethical dilemmas they encounter in their fight for better conditions and rights.

The novel advocates for reform, addressing the need for social and economic changes to rectify injustices and improve labor conditions. Through the lens of labor issues and economic disparity, Sinclair presents a call for action to address the inequalities.

Overall, "The Metropolis" provides a critical view of the social and economic challenges of early 20th-century urban life, advocating for reforms and highlighting the struggles of workers in a rapidly evolving society.