Cheng uses asyndeton to effect throughout the poem. As the poem is about a person or people stuck in a rut and getting nowhere, the series of events in which the weariness clearly show. Along with these, there are words that, in more direct words present the weariness, like "battle-weary knights" and verbs such as "creep" in place of verbs such as "jump" or "snap" to attention. The repetition of the word "same" fills a similar purpose. The inclusion of phrases such as "children placed on carousels they cannot get off from" and "borne along through somebody's expensive fantasyland" suggests that the persona has no power over where he, or they, go and thus fall into a monotonous repetition of events in upon them by the "lordship", or, the government of Singapore. The "horrors" may imply to the tedium and the repetitions.
Another theme explored in the poem is age. "Creaking bones", "suppressed grunts", "pot bellies" and even the tucking in of those tummies with "great finesse", showing that they have had those for quite some time hints at a middle-aged person. Ironically, in contrast to the rusty armor and the engorged bodies, the weapons remain sleek. Ironic, too, is the fact that even though being part in part out of the army has hampered the other half of their world which include relationships, he is betrothed to his weapon, which makes it sound as if even their other half has been replaced by the implements of war.
Another significant point is the use of pronouns. A collective "we" is used instead of "I". This suggests that the persona is a collective many. This suggests that it is not one person that is facing this monotony, these "masked threats" and "monsters" but a collective majority of people who have to complete this pointless task yet another time. This point gives a new angle to the poem: are we all part of this tedium of life? Is it life that Cheng is talking about and not just the training? Rolled over lines is another frequently used device. It is used variously to suggest the placement, displacement, unity and movements at different places in the poem.
The ending of the poem, though seeming to end on a good note, there seems to be a great deal of uncertainty as they "stumble" onto new paths. There is also a newfound resoluteness in the persona, highlighted by the repetition of "will". Also the hope that has arisen seems to hint at an ending to the monotony.
Cheng presents doubts and uncertainties that we may all be subject to to light. It is a cleverly constructed poem and a work of art. It is truly interesting to read this poem and to uncover its many layers.
