A former professor of English Literature at Maxwell College and a friend of Julius, Saito is characterized by his love of literature and his past experiences during World War II. He passes away from cancer during the course of the novel.

Nadège is Julius’s ex-girlfriend who moved to San Francisco and became engaged. Julius occasionally reflects on their past relationship throughout the novel.

An acquaintance from Julius’s past in Nigeria who reappears in his life when they run into each other in New York City. She works as an investment banker.

Julius’s friend is an Earth Sciences professor and jazz lover who eventually moves from New York City to take a teaching position at the University of Chicago. His family history includes struggles with drugs and mental illness.

Farouq is a Moroccan who runs an internet and phone shop in Brussels. He initially pursued academia with a focus on translation but took on more radical views after his academic thesis was rejected.

A retired Belgian surgeon who frequently travels between Belgium and the United States, Dr. Maillotte meets Julius on a flight and again for dinner, discussing various views on global issues.