The Denial of Death discussion

I'm thinking about getting this book because I am a pessimist (in the philosophical sense) and interested in issues of fear of death and the lack of meaning of human lives.

However, I've been reading some disquieting reviews saying that there's an inspirational message in this book, in the last ten pages. I don't really feel like reading it if he's gonna spring a "AHA! Here is meaning! HOORAY FOR LIFE!" at the end. So is this actually true?

Well, I suppose if you are hoping for a Disney ending you may be disappointed.
What I found to be comforting about this book was the universality of of humanity's fear, denial of the inevitable death and perhaps our ability to assuage our fears by acceptance of this by combining religion(spirituality)and science.
Your existentialist struggle may be clearer for you. Just knowing that some of the greatest thinkers in human history also struggled with the same issues may be of comfort. It was for me. I liked this book very much.

Well, I am not hoping for a Disney ending. On the contrary, I don't WANT to read it if it has a Disney ending. I am a pessimist (in the philosophical sense) and I don't want an optimist ending.

Then you should read it.

I found the book to shine light on many aspects of human behavior and I agree with Mercedes, there is no Disney ending. I count it as one of the most important books I've read.

Thanks, I ordered it and it's on my desk ready to be read, as soon as I get through Lovecraft.