Crane writes in extremes, sharing with vividness the brutality of the lower class living in New York in the late nineteenth century. This story shares Maggie's descent into prostitution. She is a young and naive girl growing up in relative poverty and an abusive household. Ultimately, Maggie is left in ruin and tragedy alongside other girls who have nowhere else to turn except for the "crimson legions."

While this story is short and brash, I was impacted by its depiction of the characters. At one point, Maggie approaches a clergyman on the streets in hopes that he will stop to help her, but out of fear for his own reputation, the man wrenches away from her and goes about his way. I was reminded a bit of the story of the Good Samaritan.

Overall, this novella is worth a read. Stephen Crane is best known for The Red Badge of Courage, but his other writings are powerful as well.