·       Phaedrus: The narrator and protagonist of the novel, a middle-aged man who is struggling to come to terms with the death of his son, Chris. He is a kind and compassionate man who is determined to find meaning in life. He is also a bit of a loner who is not afraid to stand up for what he believes in.

·       Chris: Phaedrus's son, who died in a motorcycle accident. He was a kind and compassionate boy who was loved by everyone who knew him. He is also a bit of a mystery to Phaedrus, as he struggles to understand why Chris died.

·       John Sutherland: Phaedrus's friend and mentor, a professor of philosophy who helps Phaedrus to understand his grief and to find meaning in life. He is a kind and compassionate man who is always willing to help others. He is also a bit of a wise man who is always willing to share his wisdom with others.

·       Valerie: Phaedrus's girlfriend, a young woman who is also struggling to find meaning in life. She is a kind and compassionate woman who is always willing to help others. She is also a bit of a free spirit who is not afraid to live her life on her own terms.

·       Cyril: Phaedrus's motorcycle, a 1955 Norton 500cc motorcycle that Phaedrus and Chris restored together. Cyril is a symbol of Phaedrus's journey of self-discovery and his search for meaning in life.

·       The Committee: A group of people who are determined to discredit Phaedrus and his ideas. They are a symbol of the forces of conformity and suppression that Phaedrus is struggling against.