Character Description Role in the Story Themes/Significance
Protagonist The unnamed Central character who Represents themes of love,
narrator who reflects experiences emotional responsibility, and inner conflict. Their
on their life and turmoil due to the fire and reflections drive the narrative,
relationships, their relationship with Pell. emphasizing the struggle between duty
particularly with Pell. and affection.
Pell A young child, Symbolizes innocence and Embodies themes of protection,
innocent and the emotional connection sacrifice, and parental love. Pell’s
vulnerable, whose between the protagonist survival is a pivotal moment that
safety is a primary and the child. His well- highlights the emotional stakes of the
concern for the being is a catalyst for the narrative.
protagonist. protagonist’s actions
during the fire.
Uncle A figure who His refusal of an order and Reflects themes of authority versus
Moab represents authority subsequent appearance compassion. His actions prompt the
and tradition, whose highlights the complexities protagonist to reevaluate their
interactions with Pell of family dynamics and understanding of relationships and
create tension in the societal expectations. obedience.
protagonist’s
thoughts.
Old A compassionate, Serves as a symbolic Signifies themes of sacrifice, maternal
Negress protective figure who guardian and represents instinct, and the transcendence of love.
appears in the the nurturing aspect of Her presence illustrates the bond
protagonist’s dream motherhood. Her actions between caretakers and the children
and later rescues Pell provide a contrast to the they protect.
from the fire. protagonist's initial feelings
of helplessness.
Cousin A family member His involvement during the Highlights themes of community and
Pelham who plays a minor fire emphasizes the familial duty. His character reinforces
role in the narrative, urgency and fear shared the idea that during emergencies,
responding to the fire among the characters, individuals come together for a
crisis and showcasing familial bonds common cause—protecting loved ones.
representing the in times of crisis.
collective concern for
Pell’s safety.
Nurse An unnamed Her presence during the Represents the theme of collective care
character who aids in crisis further illustrates the in familial and community settings. Her
the care of Pell and protective network around role emphasizes the importance of
other children. Pell and the shared collaboration during emergencies.
concern for his safety.
