Well, Gripus' pessimism and cavalier attitude are no doubt inspired by the fact that he is a human, who relies on magic to keep him alive and young. Humans aren't meant to live forever, and though 91 isn't ancient, it's longer than most humans could be expected to last. I'm of the belief that long lived races, such as Elves, are mentally suited to their long lives, whilst humans who are but a flash in the pan, might struggle with never-ending existence. I mean, we get bored real quick, don't we? 

A Drow might find itself disgusted by a long lived human, as it is entirely unnatural, and they may even just dismiss Gripus as a man lost to lunacy because he's not supposed to be alive anymore.

I don't know, I'm just idea fishing. To be honest I love the conflict, it's been an unexpected treat.