The observant narrator takes a journey through the urban environment of London. Recognizing the severe physical and spiritual toll of strict government protocols, they possess a keen awareness of the misery surrounding them. They express deep criticism toward institutions like the Church and the monarchy that fail to protect the vulnerable.

Children, some as young as four or five, who perform incredibly dangerous work cleaning chimneys. Their small size makes them useful to the industry, though the job comes with chronic illness and short life expectancies. Their suffering represents the widespread exploitation of child labor in the city.

Military men serving the English government during a period of heavy military involvement and domestic oppression. They lose their lives for a government and monarchy that live comfortably while the common people perish.

Young, impoverished women forced into street work to survive the desperate economic conditions of London. The misery of their trade fosters deep anger, prompting them to curse loudly in the night. Their presence reveals the systemic failure of the city to provide for its citizens.

The youngest members of London's population. Though entirely innocent, they immediately suffer the consequences of the city's corruption and institutional restrictions. They represent the cyclical nature of despair, born into a society that offers no hope for future generations.