Think of the imagery, then you'll understand the sentance. An abyss is a dark and deep or unending hole, so it would symbolize a hopeless loss. 'Clawed its way back'....picture sharp talons laborously digging in to stop the fall and subsequently climb up out of the hole. So you see, taken all together, the author is using imagery to convey that the campaign worked hard to rebound, presumably from a hopeless loss.

I think it means it is like a struggling animal who is crawling out of a hole. Clawing refers to claws and it can make it seem like there is desperation, determination, and physical exertion, rather than calmly waiting or thinking its way out. Does that help?

no lo se