The autobiographical speaker of the sonnet sequence is a poet deeply in love. He is entirely consumed by his courtship, using his eyes as a representation of his overwhelming desire and longing. His intense passion borders on a religious obsession, as he seeks sustenance entirely through the sight of his romantic interest.

The primary subject of the sonnet sequence, the beloved represents the speaker's romantic ideal. She uniquely reciprocates the speaker's feelings, unlike the distant mistresses typical of the era's poetry. Her physical presence functions as metaphorical sustenance for the speaker, holding the power to either starve him or fill him with joy.

A figure from classical mythology who becomes entranced by his own reflection in a pool of water. Within the context of the poem, he represents the dangers of vain obsession and the paradox of starving while surrounded by visual plenty.

A classical mythological figure who suffers from unrequited love. She serves as a tragic counterpart to the poem's themes of worldly vanity and the rejection of the temporal world.