In "The Hotel New Hampshire," John Irving presents a perspective that challenges the notion of succumbing to cynicism or despair about the world's imperfections. The characters, including Iowo Bob and the narrator's father, hold a belief that, despite the struggles and failures one encounters, there exists a vital drive within humanity to pursue meaningful goals. This belief underlines their hope for progress and betterment in the world.

The narrative suggests that rather than retreating into negativity, individuals should embrace their passions and ambitions. The message is one of resilience and optimism, asserting that while the world may seem flawed, it is inherently moving towards improvement, fueled by human aspiration. This theme encourages readers to adopt a proactive attitude in the face of life's challenges.