A Ted Hughes scholar and grieving widower struggling to care for his two sons after the unexpected loss of his wife. He frequently uses literature and art as an escape from his pain while attempting to write a book about Hughes. Overwhelmed by his new role as the sole caregiver, he experiences shifting emotions and relies on alcohol, all while dealing with the sudden arrival of an anthropomorphic bird.

The two young sons of Dad and Mum, who function almost as a single entity in the narrative. Lacking the vocabulary to articulate their profound sorrow over their mother's death, they express their confusion through sudden, violent games and vivid imaginations. They are highly observant of their father's struggles but remain somewhat isolated in their own shared world.

A giant, anthropomorphic bird who inserts himself into the grieving family's home. Borrowing characteristics from a famous literary creation, Crow acts as a chaotic mix of therapist, babysitter, trickster, and guardian. He fluctuates between being fiercely protective and shockingly violent. He embodies the raw, messy reality of the family's collective grief.

The late wife of Dad and mother of the boys. Her unexpected death creates a massive void in the household and abruptly removes the family's primary caregiver. Though physically absent, her memory remains a constant presence in the home and drives the emotional arcs of her husband and sons.

A famous English poet and real-life historical figure who serves as the subject of Dad's academic book. Hughes acts as an idol and indirect source of comfort for Dad. His physical appearance in the story is limited to a past memory where he showed a brief moment of kindness to the protagonist following a lecture.

The boys' grandmother, who falls gravely ill during the family's ongoing period of mourning. Her declining health adds another layer of emotional instability and loss to the already fragile household.

Dad's literary publisher, who guides the release of the Ted Hughes book. They provide a grounding, practical presence in Dad's professional life. They keep him focused on deadlines and advise him on which aspects of the poet's life to include or avoid.