（外文电子版资料）Robert Reed - Trouble Is.pdf

ROBERT REED TROUBLE IS THE TROUBLE IS, HE BEGINS. Then he unleashes his explanation, though I can follow precious little of what he tells me. He recites ropes of numbers and random syllables masquerading as words. He discusses protocols and conscious files and unconscious files, and theres talk about ether elves and tag trolls, and something called a kick-ass intellect. He assumes that I am intimate with these terms. Its touching, really, to see his earnest faith in my own kick-ass intellect. But in these obscure realms, I am an ignorant-silly, and I lack the heart to confess my ignorance to him. I sit quietly, a pretty image nodding. I try to act involved and erudite about everything he says. And then he stops talking for no apparent reason, except perhaps that he is satisfied with his own cleverness. He smiles, happy to find my eyes fixed on him. Then with a flirtatious wink, he says, In the shell of a nut, thats your trouble. Gosh, I exclaim. Which amuses him. He laughs and leans back in the chair that I wove for the body that he brought here. It is a fit, modern body. Its the end result of much consideration, Im sure. The man has a fondness for thick blond hair and broad muscular shoulders, but the legs have been left long and thin -- appendages rarely used in his sessile life. His face probably has a strong resemblance to his real face. The sharp cheeks and a broad chin are most certainly invented. His even and unnaturally white teeth look equally fictitious. But the mouth is a little too large and the nose is far too regular. I know more than most about personal appearance, and I do understand men. This man has worked with one of the more popular packages, creating an image that he hopes will impress me. He wants to look his best, no doubt. The trouble is, he doesnt understand what it is that is best about him. Smiling with my perfect mouth, I ask, But can you help me? Easily, he promises. Then he shifts his illusionary weight, betraying