Patrice is a French Algerian clerk working on the docks in French-occupied Algiers. He lives a deeply alienated, repetitive life, finding no stimulation in his job and observing passersby from his balcony in his free time. He feels disconnected from societal norms, experiencing emotional numbness toward his relationships and environment.

Zagreus is a wealthy local intellectual whose legs were amputated following an accident. He lives a largely reclusive life, spending his time alone reading and reflecting on his inability to enjoy the fortune he built in his youth. He holds a bluntly nihilistic worldview, believing that self-understanding prevents true happiness.

Marthe is Patrice's girlfriend in Algiers. She understands his emotional unavailability but attempts to provoke a reaction from him by weaponizing his jealousy regarding her past. She uses her history with local men to assert some influence over her otherwise distant partner.

Bernard is a medical professional who has set up a practice in a small mountain village after spending years abroad. He acts as a guide to the local community for newcomers and represents a grounded, self-aware approach to living. He actively works to build a satisfying life for himself.

Lucienne is a woman who enters into a relationship with Patrice on unconventional terms. She agrees to an arrangement where they live apart and she only visits intermittently, accepting his explicit admission that he does not love her.

Cardona is an unsociable barrel maker who rents a room in Patrice's building. He lives alone after being alienated from his sister due to his pride, spending most of his time at local cafes and struggling with intense emotional distress.

René is the son of the restaurant owner Celeste. He faces a serious illness and struggles with depression regarding his diagnosis, relying on reassurance from patrons to keep his spirits up.

Celeste owns a restaurant near the docks in Algiers. He provides a social space for local workers and openly worries about his son's deteriorating health.

Emmanuel is a clerk who works at the shipping company alongside Patrice. He shares in the mundane daily routines of dock work and takes lunch breaks with his colleagues.

Catherine is one of three young women sharing a house high above the rest of Algiers. She dedicates her time to sunbathing, hosting dinner parties, and pursuing an isolated form of happiness away from broader society.

Rose is a resident of the shared house in Algiers. She participates in the collective effort to withdraw from the world and construct an idyllic, sensory-focused lifestyle.

Claire is a young woman who lives with her friends in Algiers. She helps maintain their peaceful household by preparing meals and contributing to their philosophical, late-night conversations.

Perez is a local fisherman with one arm who lives in a small village. He leads a quiet, rhythmic life on the water and serves as a silent companion to newcomers in the area.