In the excerpt from Iain M. Banks' "Use of Weapons," a conversation unfolds about a metaphorical struggle with one's conscience, likened to mud wrestling. One character reflects on this internal conflict, suggesting that the battle is more about moral dilemmas rather than physical confrontation.
The exchange questions the effectiveness of violence in resolving deeper issues. The reply indicates that in this case, traditional means of conflict resolution fall short, highlighting the complexity of dealing with personal guilt and moral choices. The humor in the dialogue also points to the absurdity of trying to resolve such deep matters through force.