Even in the replies to this folks still aren't getting it. It isn't about SF being optimistic, it's about people feeling optimistic about the future. When it feels like the world is ending it's really hard for a lot of people to read genre fiction that isn't predictable or comforting.
I don't know. I've always loved pandemic stories and during the actual pandemic I sought them out. When I feel like the world is ending, I re-read instead of starting new things but not necessarily comfortable books, just comfortable for me.
"When it feels like the world is ending it's really hard ***for a lot of people*** to read genre fiction that isn't predictable or comforting." Notice I didn't say all.
I did not accuse you of that, just offered my own experience.
Your first sentence begs to disagree. Regardless, muting you now.
"I don't know" was too much for you? Go ahead and mute then.