I don't think in terms of optimism and pessimism when writing a story. I am telling a story.
Doris LessingIsaac Davis: Years ago I wrote this short story about my Mother called "The Castrating Zionist"
ManhattanNarrator: Thus... the first sound to escape Grenouille's lips sent his mother to the gallows.
Perfume: The Story of a MurdererAntoine Richis: [to his daughter] Last night I dreamt you were dead
Perfume: The Story of a Murderer