A charismatic and young Italian émigré living in Paris, who becomes David's love interest. He works as a bartender and his relationship with David explores themes of passion and inner turmoil.

An older, wealthy, Belgian-American friend of David, who frequently pursues younger men and provides financial support to David. His loneliness and perspective on love offer a contrast to David's internal conflict.

An American expatriate and David's female love interest, known for her intelligence and independence. Her relationship with David challenges both of their perceptions of traditional roles and desires.

The owner of the bar where Giovanni works, perceived as flamboyant and predatory. His interactions with Giovanni are primarily rooted in power dynamics and manipulation.

A minor character who exerts traditional expectations of masculinity and heterosexuality on David. He struggles with personal issues following the death of David’s mother and desires for David to settle down.

A friend and brief romantic interest of David's, representing his anxieties and struggles with his sexual identity. Her interactions with David are marked by ambivalence and transient connection.

David's childhood friend and the first boy with whom he explores his sexuality. His memory serves as a significant part of David’s backstory and internal conflict.

David's father’s sister, with whom David lives after his mother’s death. She is concerned about the morality and behavior of both David and his father.