In Albert Camus' novel "The Stranger," the protagonist confronts profound existential questions about hope and the nature of life and death. A pivotal moment occurs when he is asked whether he believes there is any hope or if he accepts a nihilistic view where death leads to complete oblivion. This exchange highlights the tension between the desire for meaning and the acceptance of a seemingly indifferent universe.

The protagonist's response reflects a deep-seated nihilism, indicating that he perceives death as an endpoint with no afterlife or significance. This perspective encapsulates Camus' exploration of absurdism, suggesting that individuals must navigate a world devoid of inherent purpose, ultimately shaping their own experiences and responses to existence.