Yes they’re dark but that just makes the glimpses of light shine brighter.
I think I really struggled with The Road because it really touched on every primal insecurity in a parent - being unable to provide enough food or warmth, unable to protect them.
I find them sublime. Blood Meridian is my favourite; currently reading Suttree.
I'm also reading Suttree. It's much funnier than I expected, especially the parts with Harrogate.