The passage expresses a moment of confusion or uncertainty where the speaker believes they can hear a recognizable cry from Jamie, but recognizes that it might just be a figment of their imagination. The sounds around them are chaotic and indistinct, adding to the sense of ambiguity.
This reflects the broader themes of perception and reality in "An Echo in the Bone." The speaker grapples with their senses as they navigate a tumultuous situation, highlighting how our minds can sometimes play tricks on us in moments of stress or tension.