In the story, characters like Dobbs and Captain Flume become increasingly affected by Hungry Joe's intense and disturbing nightmares. They find themselves sharing in the horror as their own dreams transform into similar nightmarish experiences, showcasing the power of collective trauma within the squadron.

This shared psychological turmoil manifests in the form of loud and obscene outbursts during the night. These outcries, although filled with despair, take on a poetic quality as they resonate in the dark, reminiscent of birdsong, albeit tainted with a grotesque twist. The comparison highlights the bizarre intersection of beauty and horror in their experiences.