Tom is a young, ambitious employee at a marketing agency who is determined to climb to the top of his company's corporate ladder. Driven by a desire for financial success, he spends his nights, weekends, and lunch hours conducting independent marketing research to impress his superiors. He relies on his self-discipline and ability to focus, though his intense dedication to work keeps him isolated in his apartment rather than participating in recreational activities.

Clare is Tom's wife, sharing a Lexington Avenue apartment with him in 1950s New York City. She expresses mild concern that Tom works too hard but generally accepts his decisions and professional drive. She frequently spends her evenings alone to accommodate his intense focus on his career.