D&C 38

As we contemplate the eternal perspective of things, we know that each individual has always existed and has progressed to the point of becoming spiritual offspring of our Father in Heaven and have progressed to be given the opportunity of this earth life and being proven herein.  It is with this understanding that the Lord said -

"...behold, the residue of the wicked have I kept in chains of darkness until the judgment of the great day, which shall come at the end of the earth;
6 And even so will I cause the wicked to be kept, that will not hear my voice but harden their hearts..."  (Doctrine and Covenants  Section 38:5 - 6)

"Chains of darkeness" in my mind suggest that no new light or knowledge will be obtained because of agency and no willingness to hear and learn.  Alma taught -

"...It is given unto many to know the mysteries of God; nevertheless they are laid under a strict command that they shall not impart only according to the portion of his word which he doth grant unto the children of men, according to the heed and diligence which they give unto him.
10 And therefore, he that will harden his heart, the same receiveth the lesser portion of the word; and he that will not harden his heart, to him is given the greater portion of the word, until it is given unto him to know the mysteries of God until he know them in full.
11 And they that will harden their hearts, to them is given the lesser portion of the word until they know nothing concerning his mysteries; and then they are taken captive by the devil, and led by his will down to destruction. Now this is what is meant by the chains of hell."  (Book of Mormon Alma 12:9 - 11)

Knowing "nothing concerning his mysteries" is the chains of darkness.  If we are to progress even to come to know that of the Father, we must give heed and diligence in obeying His commandments.

Is it any wonder the Lord warns -

"...and wo, wo, wo, is their doom."  (Doctrine and Covenants Section 38:6)

In other words, wo in their progression.