This piece takes its name from the obsessive and insistent nature of the music. The hocket-like interplay between all three parts, sudden changes in dynamics, displacement of the regular beat, and the incessantly fiendish xylophone melody all add to the diabolic nature of this music. The snare drum part features a mix of orchestral and rudimental styles incorporating closed and open rolls, fast Swiss army triplets, flam taps, and pataflaflas, all at a wide range of dynamics. The two percussion parts that support the snare drum consist of standard orchestral instruments like crash cymbals, triangles, and bass drum.