A Haitian exile and former Howard University student working on the Pennsylvania Railroad, who grapples with his identity as a black intellectual and artist.

A World War I veteran, friend, and eventual antagonist to Jake, who faces challenges due to colorism and gambling while seeking a stable relationship.

A sex worker who becomes the central object of Jake's affections after returning to Harlem.

Known as "The Wolf," he is a gambler and companion to Jake, known for his humor and resilience in the face of societal homophobia.

A singer who temporarily forms a physical connection with Jake, seeking to keep him in a relationship defined by brutality.

The owner of a Philadelphia brothel, who shows unexpected depth and compassion, particularly toward Jake.

A former sex worker and cook from South Carolina, who struggles with societal judgments on her skin tone and her choices in men.

A dandy and admirer of Jake, known for his role as a gossip and his opportunistic nature in the Harlem underworld.

A former sex worker with aspirations related to her past connections with high society, seeking a kept man.

A crew member on the Pennsylvania Railroad who engages in a rivalry with the chef, reflecting tensions within the African-American community.

A competent yet abrasive dining car chef, whose attempts to gain respect from superiors ultimately lead to conflict.

Ray's traditional girlfriend, who briefly appears showing support for the ailing Jake.

A friend of Zeddy's involved in Harlem's underbelly, linked with minstrel show stereotypes.