Where does one draw the line between flippant and dismal? In my experience, a good writer is that line, and I try to walk it as often as possible; depicting characters with a relatable air that can't help but seem almost jovial in a world painted in the bleakest lights. 
I've yet to complete a full work, however, I feel confident and actually somewhat proud of my most recent writings, which I may publish uncompleted as I write more.