How does Brian's mental and emotional state follow a pattern in chapter 8 of the book Hatchet?

Brian goes between self-pity and action. Brian is attacked in his own shelter by a curious porcupine. Brian is injured and this causes him a moment of self-pity. However, Brian quickly pulls himself together and deals with the situation. The following morning, Brian recalls how his hatchet hit against the wall and made sparks. Brian realizes that he can make fire from this. Fire would be a great coup for Brian if he can only make it work.