Optative of Wish.—In independent sentences the optative without ἄν is used to express a wish referring to the future (negative μή): ὦ παῖ, γένοιο πατρὸς εὐτυχέστερος ah, boy, mayest thou prove more fortunate than thy sire Aj. 550. From this use is derived the name of the mood (Lat. opto wish).
a. So even in relative sentences: ἐᾱ́ν ποτε, δ̀ μὴ γένοιτο, λάβωσι τὴν πόλιν
if ever they capture the city, which Heaven forbid 31.14.
b. Under wishes are included execrations and protestations: ἐξολοίμην
may I perish Ach. 324, καί σ᾽ ἐπιδείξω, ἢ μὴ ζῴην, δωροδοκήσαντα
and I will prove that you took bribes, or may I not live Eq. 833.