The novel critiques "cruel optimism" by illustrating how societal expectations and the pursuit of an idealized "good life" can lead to individual and societal suffering. Characters like John Smith and Frank Frink embody this concept, as they strive for a life of stability and happiness within the oppressive Nazi regime, only to find that their desires are actually obstacles to their well-being. Their attachment to the "good life" as defined by society—family, community, and work—results in their own unhappiness and contributes to the sustaining of an oppressive system. The novel suggests that the pursuit of these societal ideals can be detrimental, as it often requires sacrificing personal happiness and freedom. This critique extends to the broader society, highlighting how the pursuit of a "good life" can lead to the normalization and perpetuation of oppressive systems.