We are all subject to the fates. But we must all act as if we are not," said the witch, "or die of despair. There is a curious prophecy about this child: she is destined to bring about the end of destiny. But she must do so without knowing what she is doing, as if it were her nature and not her destiny to do it. If she's told what she must do, it will all fail; death will sweep through all the worlds; it will be the triumph of despair, forever. The universes will all become nothing more than interlocking machines, blind and empty of thought, feeling, life...
by Philip Pullman
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In the story, a witch expresses a profound truth about fate and the human condition, suggesting that while fate governs our lives, it is essential for individuals to live as though they are free agents to avoid despair. The witch shares a prophecy regarding a child who holds the potential to fundamentally change the concept of destiny. However, the child must remain unaware of her immense role to fulfill this destiny, or else everything will lead to catastrophic consequences.

This prophecy highlights a delicate balance between destiny and personal agency. If the child learns of her mission, the outcome will be disastrous, resulting in death and a lifeless existence across the universes. This idea reflects the tension between predetermined fate and the instinctual actions that shape one's destiny, emphasizing the value of living fully in the moment rather than being burdened by the weight of prophecy and expectation.

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