“Then would come oblivion and the awful awakening to face the hideous Four Horsemen”
Terror – Extreme or intense fear.

Bewilderment – Confused or perplexed.

Despair – To give up all hope or expectation.

Frustration – Dissatisfied, agitated, and/or discontent because one is unable to perform an action or fulfill a desire.

It’s no coincidence that they follow directly the seeking out of “sordid places, hoping to find understanding companionship and approval.”
It is also no coincidence that shortly thereafter we find;
“He cannot picture life without alcohol. Some day he will be unable to imagine life either with alcohol or without it. Then he will know …read more

This is worth repeating…
The Hideous Four Horsemen:
Terror, Bewilderment, Frustration, Despair

Hideous? – Hateful; shocking. Syn. — Frightful; ghastly; grim; grisly; horrid; dreadful; terrible.
Terror – Extreme or Intense Fear
Bewilderment – Confused, Puzzled, Befuddled, Disorientated
Frustration – The feeling of annoyance when one’s actions are criticized or hindered
Despair – Loss of hope; utter hopelessness; complete despondency.