In her book "The Proud Tower: A Portrait of the World Before the War, 1890-1914," Barbara W. Tuchman highlights a quote from Thomas Reed, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, expressing his astonishment at the insignificance of certain matters. Reed's words reflect a broader sentiment about the triviality of political discussions that often overshadow critical issues during that era.

This observation points to the disconnect between the pressing challenges faced by society and the frivolous debates that dominate the political landscape. Tuchman uses this to emphasize the need for more substantial engagement with the real problems citizens confront, urging a reevaluation of priorities within political discourse.