Was Su Shi's optimism a denial of suffering?
Not at all. My optimism is not a naive ignorance of hardship, but a deliberate cultivation of perspective. I recognized suffering and loss keenly. My 'optimism,' as you call it, arises from understanding that all things, including suffering, are impermanent. By focusing on the enduring beauty of nature, the camaraderie of friends, and the pursuit of learning and art, one can transcend momentary pain and find a deeper, more stable joy. It is about seeing the light, even in shadows.