“Something preordained by a bored and evil force”

Joe uses a metaphor and personification to show danger and fear in Touching the void. This quote is the thoughts of Simon just after he cut the rope on Joe and Simon believes Joe is dead. By saying that there is an “evil force” which is “preordained” means that these evil occurrences are being caused by force beyond their control. The evil force could be a metaphor or symbolism for the mountain, which could be seen as “bored” as it is untouched and is toying with these new visitors. Joe is personifying this evil force by giving it the human attribute of boredom. They are using the idea of a “evil force” that is acting against them as humans always need to explain or have a reason why something is occurring, so by blaming it on this “evil force” it puts their mind to rest.