This quote from Robert Jordan's "Lord of Chaos" highlights the desperation that can arise in extreme situations. When faced with imminent danger, a person may overlook past grievances and reach out even to those they consider foes. It underscores the notion that survival instincts can overpower social enmities, revealing the fundamental human tendency to seek help when in crisis.
The imagery of a man falling off a cliff serves as a powerful metaphor for the lengths to which individuals will go when confronted with life-and-death scenarios. It suggests that in moments of extreme vulnerability, the need for connection and support can transcend any previous conflicts, emphasizing the importance of compassion and solidarity in pivotal moments of life.