The point of view used in the story is third person, also known as limited omniscient. Carl Stephenson writes so that the reader can see the thoughts and feelings of the main character (Leiningen). When Leiningen reached this stage of reasoning, he felt for the first time since the arrival of the ants that his confidence was deserting him. His skin began to creep; he loosened his collar. Once the devils were over the trench there wasn't a chance in hell for him and his men. God, what a prospect, to be eaten alive like that! He also makes it possible to leave Leiningen’s thoughts on occasions to become an observer. The petrol sprinklers, hitherto used to destroy pests and blights on the plantation, were also brought into action. Streams of evil-reeking oil now soared and fell over an enemy already in disorder through the bombardment of earth and sand.