It could be that to read The Pen and the Brush in 2017 is to temporarily shut one's self away from troubling reality, a little like Des Esseintes in his study or Proust in his cork-lined bedroom.
Here's the troubling reality.
But the Bitkov case is emblematic of another troubling reality.
Let's move beyond guilt and optimism and try something new – complex and sometimes troubling reality.
The troubling reality is that unless that roof makes someone money, we simply don't care.
Yet the current standoff illustrates the troubling reality of modern-day interest-group politics.
Now his shoulder needs a break, a troubling reality for the Yankees with the playoffs three weeks away.
This lack of change creates a troubling reality: His efficient play is likely fleeting, and inconsistent against stout defensive teams.
But the troubling reality is that today's advances are having a far from impressive impact on overall economic growth.
In fact, viewing hate crimes statistics in light of improving perceptions of Muslims may obscure a deeper, more troubling reality of anti-Muslim hostility.
Still, Mr. LePage gave voice to the troubling reality that some people repeatedly overdose, and can seem stubbornly resistant to help.
