Niggle is a solitary, kindhearted, but somewhat irritable painter living in a quiet countryside. He struggles to balance his all-consuming dedication to a continuously expanding painting of a tree with his civic and neighborly duties. His creative obsession often leaves him unprepared for practical realities and the inevitable trip he must soon take.

Mr. Parish is Niggle's only close neighbor in the countryside. A highly practical man with a lame leg, he excels at gardening and agriculture but possesses no appreciation for art. He frequently finds himself in need of assistance due to weather damage and his wife's illness, which causes tension with his neighbor.

The Driver is a tall, imposing figure tasked with escorting individuals away from the countryside when their time is up. He demonstrates no sympathy for incomplete tasks or lack of preparation, maintaining a strict adherence to schedules.

The Porter works at the station where travelers start their trips. He processes travelers as they arrive, noting their lack of baggage without offering comfort or assistance.

The Shepherd is a guiding figure who appears to travelers once they have completed their work in the countryside. He extends invitations to those ready to transition to the next phase of their travels.

The First Voice is a severe, authoritative presence that evaluates the actions and records of travelers. This figure takes a strict accounting of time wasted and duties neglected, focusing entirely on the rules and requirements of the journey.

The Second Voice is a gentle, merciful presence that reviews the deeds of travelers. This figure looks for genuine sacrifices and acts of kindness, holding the ultimate authority to prescribe restorative treatment rather than harsh punishment.

The Inspector of Houses is a local official responsible for ensuring properties are properly maintained. He prioritizes practical needs and civic regulations over creative endeavors, viewing art materials primarily as unused building supplies.

Councilor Tompkins is a practical-minded town official who views art as entirely useless. He eagerly waits to acquire properties when residents leave on their journeys and measures a person's worth entirely by their material productivity.

Atkins is a local schoolteacher with a rare appreciation for aesthetics. Unlike his peers, he recognizes the beauty in small things and works to preserve fragments of discarded art for future generations to see.

Mrs. Parish is the wife of Niggle's neighbor. Her sudden illness during a severe storm creates an urgent situation that forces Niggle to abandon his work and seek medical help.