Jo
Seventeen-year-old Jo is a witty, sensitive character whose rebellious impulses can be seen as the direct result of her feelings of abandonment. She shares a strong bond with her mother Helen—the two women’s vicious…
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Helen
At the age of forty, Helen leads an unstable life that revolves around drinking and her romantic relationships with lovers, whom she depends on financially. Characterized by a domineering attitude and a tendency to follow…
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Peter Smith
A boldly assertive, often vulgar young man, Peter is a car salesman who follows Helen to her new home and convinces her to marry him. He shows little sensitivity to the subtleties of Helen and…
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Geoffrey Ingram
Jo’s friend and roommate, Geoffrey is seen by others primarily through the lens of his homosexuality and what others consider to be his effeminate demeanor. Apart from his “pansified” appearance, which sets him apart…
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Jimmie (“The Boy”)
Jo’s boyfriend, a black sailor who is about to leave for a six-month trip with the Navy, is an affectionate but unreliable character. While he declares his love to Jo, asks her to marry…
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