They looked as frail and doomed as a dam of little twigs and tiny pebbles trying to hold back the Mississippi. But they were trying, all the same. They'd go on trying till the end of everything.
The passage describes a group that appears weak and destined for failure, likened to a fragile dam made of small twigs and pebbles struggling against the powerful Mississippi River. This vivid imagery emphasizes their vulnerability in the face of overwhelming odds.
Despite their frailty, the group persists in their efforts, showcasing resilience and determination. Their relentless spirit to continue fighting, even in the face of inevitable defeat, reflects a deeper theme of perseverance that resonates throughout Philip Pullman's work, particularly "The Amber Spyglass."
