He can continue to be hard on himself until hell freezes over, because he's so self-centeredly pessimistic that there's nothing I can ever do to lighten him up.

People struggled to cope with the ever-increasing cost of living.

And all their entrails tore, disgorging foul / Their devilish glut, …

Spectators are privy to awe inspiring castles, baffling forks, and breathtaking en passants.