The unnamed narrator acts as a passionate advocate for cinema and personal freedom. They possess a deep reverence for the cinematic arts, viewing moviegoing as a spiritual practice necessary for the soul. They offer unconventional advice to parents, emphasizing the importance of letting youth experience the world unhindered. This voice warns that without the chance to explore darker joys, youth will grow into bitter adults.

The mothers represent well-meaning authority figures in the American family structure who try to raise their families correctly. They focus heavily on fresh air and physical health, often keeping their youth close to home or in the yard. They harbor their own private desires and need time away from parenting duties to pursue their own interests. The poem warns that their overprotective instincts risk creating a fractured family dynamic.

The youth of America stand on the precipice of coming-of-age experiences. When restricted, they risk becoming resentful and stagnant, eventually aging blindly in front of television sets. When given freedom, they explore darkened cinemas, eat candy, and discover glamorous far-off countries on the silver screen. They need space to figure out who they are away from parental supervision.

A local individual who lives near the movie theater. They represent the allure of the unknown and the opportunity for youths to experience physical awakening for the first time. They embody the worldly pleasures and educational moments available in the dark safety of the cinema.