The End of the Tether by Joseph Conrad (Jozef Konrad Korzeniowski)

Reflective of Conrad’s realism and pessimism, this is a heart-rending story of an aging sea captain who is losing his eyesight. Captain Whalley conceals his deteriorating condition, regardless of his reputation, in order to provide financial support to his daughter. The love of a father for his only child and the lengths to which he goes to secure her happiness is touchingly portrayed. Nevertheless this is one of the most pessimistic books by Conrad.