Toby reflects on the absurdity of war, comparing it to a practical joke where the excitement of surprise can quickly turn deadly. She notes how the chaotic nature of conflict often resembles a childish game, with one side emerging as the victor while the other faces grim consequences. The imagery of defeat evokes a sense of foolishness, with defeated enemies left in a state of shock, highlighting the absurd harshness of human violence.

Toby contemplates the motivations behind such brutal actions, pondering whether Crake was driven by a desire to eradicate humanity's darker instincts. The references to historical cruelty and ancient kings convey a sense of innate malice that has persisted through time. Toby considers the notion of rebooting humanity, suggesting a profound hope for a future free of the inherent savagery that war incites.