The poem delivers a potent antiwar message by celebrating the defiance of a conscientious objector named Olaf, who stands firm against the pressures to engage in combat. Olaf's steadfastness leads to his tragic demise through torture, yet the narrator remains convinced of Olaf's place in heaven. Olaf's decision to follow a path aligned with Christ’s teachings, prioritizing moral conviction over conventional patriotism, earns him redemption. In this context, the poem argues that true patriotism can be misguided when it perpetuates evil, suggesting that Olaf's brave refusal is a more righteous choice, worthy of admiration and ultimate divine forgiveness.

E. E. Cummings crafts a vivid portrait of Olaf, a character whose stature and demeanor initially inspire admiration with his robust physique, joyful disposition, and warm heart. Yet, this seemingly positive depiction quickly takes a turn as Cummings hyphenates the word "objector" into "object-or," subtly suggesting that Olaf is reduced to a mere pawn in society’s grand design. This transformation in tone highlights the manipulative forces at play, aiming to mold individuals like Olaf to serve societal and military agendas.

The poem employs irony to critique these manipulative forces, particularly through the depiction of Olaf’s colonel. Described with seemingly flattering terms like "well beloved" and "succinctly bred," such descriptions are laden with sarcasm, revealing the colonel’s true nature as domineering and unsympathetic. This duality extends to the portrayal of the military personnel tasked with persuading Olaf of the necessity of war. These individuals, referred to as "overjoyed" and "kindred intellects," derive pleasure from their coercive actions, reveling in their brutality.

In stark contrast, Olaf exudes a serene defiance. Fully aware of his fate as "a corpse," he confronts their aggression without fear, responding with calm yet rebellious words. His unwavering stance underscores the poem’s critique of a society that seeks conformity, highlighting the courage required to resist such oppressive manipulation. Cummings effectively uses Olaf’s character to illuminate the harsh realities faced by those who refuse to conform, making a poignant commentary on the human spirit and the societal mechanisms that strive to suppress it.

The case of Olaf eventually reaches the commander-in-chief of the Army, who, in a disheartening agreement, condemns him with derogatory language, deeming him worthy of imprisonment. The decision reflects a descent into the brutal practices reminiscent of the Dark Ages, with solitary confinement in a dungeon-like prison being his grim fate. Here, the narrative draws a parallel between Olaf and Christ, both of whom suffer for their nonconformity. The comparison suggests that, much like Christ, Olaf will ultimately transcend his torment, achieving a kind of spiritual victory over the oppressive forces that seek to crush dissent.

The poem critiques the distortion of American patriotism, suggesting that it has been twisted into a barbaric force that mercilessly obliterates any form of opposition. Reflecting on Olaf’s defiance, he stands as a beacon of true perfection in stark contrast to the war-driven society. His unwavering stance embodies peace and pacifism, challenging the notion that patriotism must align with violence and coercion. Olaf's narrative elevates him to the status of a hero, whose sacrifice and resilience in the face of overwhelming pressure mirror a Christ-like fortitude that champions the ideals of peace over the brutality of war.