Cummings isolates and connects words to strip them of their immediate meanings in order to open them to more possibilities. This is the method by which Cummings diverts the reader from foregone conclusions toward a new way of thinking.
Consider: a conscientious object-or (S1L3.)
The poet sets the scene for this poem with a paucity of words, by use of a dash to connect two ideas. The first idea that comes to the reader might be that Olaf is a conscientious objector. But,...