Final answer:
The simile "like watching the last flickers of a life" refers to the struggling steamer.
Step-by-step explanation:
The simile "like watching the last flickers of a life" is referring to C. The struggling steamer. The phrase is used to describe the appearance of the steamer, highlighting its weakening state and suggesting that it may soon come to an end. This simile conveys a sense of imminent demise and emphasizes the fragility and vulnerability of the steamer.
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