Heinrich von Kleist, a notable figure of his time, faced a profound despair that led him to a tragic end. In 1811, he took his own life as part of a suicide pact with a woman who was battling terminal cancer. This act highlights the intense suffering both individuals endured, reflecting the deep emotional turmoil that can accompany chronic illness and despair.

This poignant moment in Kleist's life underscores the broader themes of human suffering and the desperate measures some may resort to when faced with insurmountable pain. Nicholas Tucker's "Darkness Visible: Inside the World of Philip Pullman" presents such historical narratives to reveal the complexities of the human experience, particularly in the context of despair and the search for solace.