The voice of the poem delivers a prayer-like blessing to a fellow traveler on a boat. Acting as a spiritual guide, she uses the inclusive pronoun "our" to place herself alongside the listener in the journey of life and its inevitable transitions. She maintains a deep faith in the benevolence of natural forces, attempting to soothe fears about the unknown.

An ambiguous, generalized figure who represents the reader or anyone undergoing a significant life transition. The speaker describes this person as possessing an inherent innocence as they sail toward an uncertain destination. They face potential fear regarding the crossing but receive encouragement to trust the journey.

The author of the poem, whose personal experiences with illness, aging, and deep spirituality inform the text. She identifies as a two-headed woman capable of communicating with the spirit world. This shapes her focus on eternal human elements. She channels her resistance into accessible, free-verse poetry that offers universal comfort.

A personified natural force in the poem, representing the unpredictable yet potentially benevolent powers of nature or the divine. The wind dictates the movement of the boats, pushing them forward. If met with affection, it reciprocates by offering support to the traveler.

A personified body of water that acts as the medium for the boat's transition. It represents the eternal and eternally shifting nature of existence, time, and the unknown. Instead of appearing hostile or frightening, it greets the traveler amicably.

A philosophy professor and the husband of Lucille Clifton. He shares a life with her in Baltimore, where they raise six children together. His passing from cancer at a young age provides his wife with a painful, intimate understanding of mortality.

A poet who practices formal meter and passes her love of the craft down to her daughter. She teaches a young Lucille how to write and plants the seed for her daughter's future literary career despite resistance from within the household.

The father of Lucille Clifton. He holds a strong disapproval of his wife's poetry writing. This tension culminates in a traumatic event where he burns some of his wife's work, a moment that leaves a lasting impression on his daughter's memory.

A highly influential African American poet who recognizes Lucille Clifton's talent early on. He plays a crucial role in launching her career by publishing her earliest works in his anthology, integrating her into the broader history of Black literary traditions.

A fellow faculty member at St. Mary's College, serving as an editor and friend to Lucille Clifton. He possesses deep familiarity with her background, providing historical context for her works and organizing commemorative events to honor her legacy.

A fellow poet, colleague, and friend to Lucille. She shares conversations and mutual influence with Lucille regarding their writings on mortality. Their relationship helps shape how both authors approach the subject of illness in their poetry.

A Pulitzer Prize-winning author who conducts an interview with Lucille. The two discuss the realities of the writing life and the societal restrictions placed upon female authors, creating a public record of their shared professional challenges.