A respected campus figure and literature master believed to have connections with Hemingway, who later resigns to confront rumors surrounding his past.

A literature master at the prep school who embraces literary experimentation and later invites the narrator to return as a visiting writer.

The narrator's school roommate and fellow member of the literary circle, known for his reserved nature and hidden Jewish identity.

The editor of the school’s literary magazine and winner of the Frost contest, with later success in academia through philosophy.

A member of the school's literary crowd from a wealthy family, known for his outspoken critique of class disparities.

A celebrated poet who chooses the winning poem for a school contest and strongly defends formal verse.

An acclaimed author known for works that promote individualism, with a dismissive approach to writing that depicts vulnerability.

A legendary author whose realistic writing style fascinates the narrator and who plays a pivotal role in a school writing contest.

The author of the short story that captivates the narrator, whose work is eventually honored in a school contest.