* A macabre game: Wargrave, a retired judge, is a twisted individual obsessed with justice and punishment. He uses the poem and figurines as a way to play a deadly game of "ten little Indians," mirroring the poem's verses with the guests' deaths. This allows him to control the narrative and implement his twisted sense of justice.
* Psychological manipulation: Wargrave meticulously crafts the scenario to manipulate the guests, causing them to fear for their lives and eventually turn on each other. The poem and figurines serve as a constant reminder of the impending doom, increasing the paranoia and tension among them.
* Setting the stage: The poem and figurines are visual and symbolic elements that create a chilling atmosphere. They foreshadow the murders, establishing a sense of foreboding and preparing the reader for the gruesome events that will unfold.
* A twisted sense of theatricality: Wargrave takes pleasure in the dramatic aspect of his murders. The poem and figurines act as props in his elaborate stage play, enhancing the theatrical and macabre nature of the killings.
Ultimately, Wargrave's use of the poem and figurines adds a layer of complexity and psychological depth to his character and the story. They are not just props but powerful tools he uses to orchestrate his gruesome game and achieve his twisted goal of delivering his own brand of justice.