Java AbstractAction sometimes not detecting escape key - bizarre behaviour?

The problem you are having is with the setting of the tool tip text. Once you do that, the ToolTipManager is replacing your discard action key in the inputMap with its own hideTip key stroke, also VK_ESCAE.

I wold suggest to NOT attach actions to each text field. Attach them to the parent container and when retrieving input map from it - use WHEN_ANCESTOR_OF_FOCUSED_COMPONENT condition.

I cant really gove you an answer,but what I can give you is a way to a solution, that is you have to find the anglde that you relate to or peaks your interest. A good paper is one that people get drawn into because it reaches them ln some way.As for me WW11 to me, I think of the holocaust and the effect it had on the survivors, their families and those who stood by and did nothing until it was too late.