The voice of the lyric poem represents an individual who experiences an overwhelming, physical surge of joy when viewing natural phenomena like rainbows. The speaker seeks to carry the pure, uninhibited awe of childhood forward into adulthood, viewing nature as a continuous guiding presence. Memory and consistency in emotional response form the core of the speaker's identity.

An English poet who channels his early, intense connection to the Lake District into his creative work. He champions the use of common speech in literature and centers his writing on personal emotion and the lives of rustic people. His daily experiences and childhood memories directly feed his poetic output.

A fellow writer who becomes a crucial collaborator during a highly creative period. He works closely with William to help launch a new era in English poetry by prioritizing raw emotion and individual experience over traditional, elevated diction.

William's sister and constant companion during his most prolific writing period. She operates as an acute observer of the natural world in her own right, documenting the daily routines, expeditions, and writing habits of her household.

A woman who marries the poet during his most prolific decade of writing, eventually starting a family with him in the English countryside.

A member of the well-to-do family from Cockermouth. He is William's brother, sharing the family's early history and losses during their childhood years.