Guy Crouchback, a disillusioned man seeking purpose, attempts to enlist in the British Army at the onset of World War II to find a cause worth fighting for. Crouchback, a 35-year-old Catholic, navigates the bureaucratic indifference and absurdity of the military establishment as he secures a commission in the Royal Corps of Halberdiers. His objective is to participate in a meaningful crusade, yet he is constantly thwarted by the incompetence of his superiors and the eccentricities of his peers. The narrative is presented through a third-person perspective that emphasizes the disconnect between the romantic ideals of war and the mundane reality of military life.

Readers and critics frequently note the sharp, biting wit that defines the prose throughout the narrative. Discussion often centers on the effective balance between the protagonist's internal moral struggle and the external absurdity of his military environment. Many highlight the character of Apthorpe as a primary source of both comedic relief and thematic depth regarding colonial attitudes. The atmosphere is described as meticulously crafted, capturing the specific social anxieties of the era with precision. Overall, the work is recognized for its ability to maintain a satirical edge while addressing serious questions about duty and belief.