Librarian Addie Bemis, played initially with prim, ladylike dourness by Mary Bacon, lives a solitary life under the control of her abusive, alcoholic father.

WSJ: Review: 'Happy Birthday' a booze-filled romp

And yet the reputation of modern solitude is puzzling, because the traits enabling a solitary life financial stability, spiritual autonomy, the wherewithal to buy more dishwashing detergent when the box runs out are those our culture prizes.

NEWYORKER: The Disconnect

In this intriguing exhibition, and in the moving tributes by his friends Mr. Holl and Sanford Kwinter (available on Youtube), one sees the lasting value, and the folly, of an architect pursuing such a devout and solitary life.

WSJ: A Man Outside His Time | Lebbeus Woods | SFMOMA | By Richard B. Woodward

Swedish soprano Nina Stemme sings of a tranquil end to life's journey, hand in hand with her beloved, gazing at two solitary birds (represented by flutes) hovering in the dimness.

NPR: Richard Strauss: Perfecting the Swan Song