In "Clockwork" by Philip Pullman, certain narratives unfold with an inevitable momentum, as if they fall under a predetermined fate. Characters grapple with an unyielding storyline that leaves them powerless to alter their paths. This highlights the tension between desire and destiny, illustrating how some tales are relentless in their progression regardless of the characters' struggles.

This concept underscores the idea that once a story is set in motion, it can follow a deliberate trajectory, with little room for deviation. Pullman's portrayal suggests that despite individual aspirations, the overarching narrative often unfolds in a specific direction, compelling characters to confront their fates without the ability to change them.